As the Los Angeles Chargers set their sights on the 2024 NFL season, the front office and coaching staff find themselves at a critical juncture. With a roster brimming with talent but lacking certain key components to push them into true contender status, strategic trades could be the difference between another middling season and a deep playoff run. The upcoming months will be pivotal as the Chargers aim to build on their recent progress and solidify a roster capable of challenging the NFL's elite. Here, we dive into three key trade targets who could provide the final pieces of the puzzle for the Chargers: Courtland Sutton, John Cominsky, and Markquese Bell.
The Chargers So Far
The Chargers endured a profoundly disappointing season marred by injuries and subpar defensive performance. Jim Harbaugh's return to the NFL as the Chargers' new head coach brings the responsibility of revitalizing quarterback Justin Herbert and steering the team back on course after Herbert's toughest season yet.
To achieve this, the Chargers are undergoing a significant overhaul. They aim to become salary-cap compliant while crafting a new team identity. Holding the fifth overall draft pick, they face one of the league's most challenging cap situations.
The arrival of a new regime ushered in notable changes for the Chargers. Unexpectedly, within a few months, both starting wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams were no longer part of the team. No high-profile replacements were signed in the wake of their departure. Instead, the team brought in two rookies and one free agent. This leaves the Chargers' receiving corps in a transitional phase. They lack experienced star power. While one dependable veteran remains, the pressing question is who else will emerge to provide Justin Herbert with reliable targets.
Here we'll look at the three players whom the Los Angeles Chargers can consider their best target targets to round out the 2024 roster.
Courtland Sutton, WR
Denver Broncos wide receiver Courtland Sutton skipped the first round of OTAs as he pursues a new contract. Trade rumors have been swirling around Sutton for months, despite repeated reports that the Broncos have no interest in moving him. Despite the Broncos' optimistic outlook for 2024, this is clearly a rebuilding team with little chance of contending for the AFC West title or making the playoffs.
Sutton is under contract through 2025, but his dissatisfaction with his current deal remains an issue. Teams have already shown interest in trading for Sutton. As the summer progresses, one of them may present an offer too enticing for Denver to refuse.
At some point, the Broncos may come to realize that making a sacrifice now could significantly benefit the team's future prospects.
Sutton’s size, speed, and athleticism make him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. He excels at high-pointing the ball and making tough catches in traffic. Given the recent departures of Allen and Williams, the Chargers are in desperate need of a proven wide receiver who can step in and immediately contribute.
Adding Sutton to the roster would provide Herbert with a dependable and dynamic weapon. Sutton's ability to stretch the field and create separation would open up opportunities for other receivers and tight ends. Furthermore, Sutton's experience and leadership could help mentor the younger receivers. That would foster a more cohesive and effective unit.
John Cominsky, EDGE
The Detroit Lions appear well-stocked on the edge. Aidan Hutchinson has showcased Defensive Player of the Year potential and Marcus Davenport will likely add 8-10 sacks from the opposite side. However, sixth-year pro John Cominsky's production dropped significantly last season. Despite taking a substantial pay cut to stay with the team, head coach Dan Campbell emphasized that Cominsky remains a crucial part of Detroit's defensive strategy.
Acquiring Cominsky would provide the Chargers with a formidable presence on the defensive line. He can draw double teams and free up other pass rushers like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. His versatility to play both inside and on the edge gives the defensive coordinator flexibility in scheming and adjusting to different offensive strategies. By adding Cominsky, the Chargers would not only strengthen their defensive front. They would also enhance their ability to pressure the quarterback.
Markquese Bell, S
Markquese Bell's second NFL season with the Dallas Cowboys was quite eventful. Originally a safety at Florida A&M, Bell was utilized as an off-ball linebacker last year. He played in all 17 games, making eight starts and tallying 94 total tackles. However, in the Cowboys' playoff loss to the Packers, Bell's size and lack of experience were exposed. This led to significant changes in Dallas' defensive lineup.
Now, the Cowboys plan to move Bell back to his natural position of safety. Despite Jayron Kearse's departure, Dallas still has established starters in Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker. This will limit Bell's path to significant playing time.
However, Bell's versatility as a “hybrid” player is valuable. Several NFL teams could benefit from his skill set, including the Chargers. His ability to cover slot receivers and read the quarterback makes him an invaluable asset. In 2023, Bell recorded four interceptions and 12 passes defended, along with numerous tackles that demonstrated his willingness to contribute in run support. Pairing Bell with Derwin James would give the Chargers one of the most formidable safety tandems in the league. This would significantly improve their pass defense and provide a safety net for the entire defense.
Looking Ahead
The Los Angeles Chargers have the potential to be a true contender in 2024. However, key additions are necessary to round out their roster. Courtland Sutton, John Cominsky, and Markquese Bell represent strategic trade targets who could address critical weaknesses and elevate the team to new heights. Sutton would add a dynamic element to the receiving game, Cominsky would fortify the defensive line, and Bell would strengthen a beleaguered secondary. By making these trades, the Chargers would position themselves as a formidable force in the AFC, ready to challenge for the ultimate prize. With a few bold moves, the Chargers can turn their potential into reality and make a serious push for the Super Bowl.
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