The Chargers‘ roster will be mostly finalized in a few weeks at the conclusion of the 2025 NFL draft. However, there is work to do on the offensive side of the ball.
Let’s take a look at the offensive depth chart and some possible draft prospects to keep an eye on.
Quarterback
Starter: Justin Herbert
Backups: Taylor Heinicke, Trey Lance
There was some movement at this position with Lance’s one-year, $6.2 million deal this past week. The 2021 third overall pick is an upside signing and still has the potential to be a long-term backup. This may be the only offensive position already set for the 2025 campaign.
Running Back
Starter: Najee Harris
Backups: Kimani Vidal, Hassan Haskins, Jaret Patterson
The running back is not fully set for the 2025 season. Whether it’s a veteran late in free agency or via the draft, the front office will address this position once more. Behind Harris, the offense desperately needs a reliable backup. Preferably, the Chargers will find a change-of-pace playmaker or even a long-term answer. If the Chargers use an early pick on the position, either of the Ohio State backs in TreVeyon Henderson or Quinshon Judkins makes sense. Arizona State‘s Cam Skattebo, Miami’s Damien Martinez, and Kansas State‘s DJ Giddens are intriguing middle-round options. As for the later rounds, someone like Texas’ Jaydon Blue could be a perfect option given his speed and pass-catching ability.
Wide Receiver
Starters: Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Mike Williams
Backups: Derius Davis, Jalen Reagor, Brenden Rice, Dez Fitzpatrick, Jaylen Johnson
Like running back, it seems like a guarantee that we will see one more (or even two) addition at this position. Expect the Chargers to use an early pick on a wide receiver for the third consecutive year. A speedster like Matthew Golden from Texas would be fun, but that would require a first-round selection. The second round seems like the sweet spot to pick a wideout, bringing Iowa State’s Jayden Higgins, Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor, and Ole Miss’ Tre Harris. If they decide to wait later than expected, Colorado State‘s Tory Horton is a name that makes a lot of sense given his dynamic versatility, including as a returner.
Tight End
Starter: Will Dissly
Backups: Tyler Conklin, Stone Smartt, Tucker Fisk, McCallan Castles
Unless the team carries four tight ends on its 2025 roster, a few of these guys’ spots will be in danger here in a few months. It is highly probable that the front office will use one of the first two draft picks on a tight end. Chargers fans need to get to know Michigan’s Colston Loveland, Penn State’s Tyler Warren, and LSU’s Mason Taylor, as it feels like one could end up in powder blue. Texas’ Gunnar Helm, Miami’s Elijah Arroyo, and Notre Dame’s Mitchell Evans could also be in contention to be used with one of the team’s picks.
Offensive Line
Starters: Rashawn Slater, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, Mekhi Becton, Joe Alt
Backups: Karsen Barnhart, Jamaree Salyer, Andre James, Tyler McLellan, Trey Pipkins, Bucky Williams
The front office’s most underrated free agency signing had to be right guard Mekhi Becton. It was late into the process, but he will help solidify the interior part of this line. He’s a mauler and will help tremendously in the run game. This unit seems mostly set, but the Chargers should still possibly target an interior offensive lineman for additional depth. Someone like Tate Ratledge of Georgia would be a great fit if the front office does take a lineman in the middle rounds. Arizona’s Jonah Savaiinaea, LSU’s Miles Frazier, Sacramento State’s Jackson Slater and Boston College’s Drew Kendall are a few other options.