In what comes as a stunning move to start training camp for the Los Angeles Chargers, wide receiver Mike Williams’ agent, Tory Dandy, informed the team that he is retiring after eight seasons in the NFL.
This comes after the Chargers brought back Williams on a one-year deal that was worth up to $6 million. With the 30-year-old out of the mix, the team has a huge dilemma at the wide receiver position.
Chargers’ second-round pick Tre Harris became the first rookie to officially hold out of training camp, after a new revelation surrounding handing out fully guaranteed contracts to second-round picks Jayden Higgins of the Houston Texans and Carson Schwesinger of the Cleveland Browns, the first in NFL history. That said, here are some options the team can pursue in light of this troublesome issue.
Backup Plans After Mike Williams’ Retirement Announcement
One of the more aggressive but potentially high-reward moves the Chargers could pursue is a trade for Washington Commanders wideout Terry McLaurin. While McLaurin has publicly stated he wants to remain with the Commanders, he also voiced clear frustration with the front office’s lack of urgency in contract extension talks. The 29-year-old Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his deal and hasn’t had negotiations with Washington in over a month.
His frustration is reaching a boiling point, and his recent comments suggest he’s looking for clarity and respect from the team. If the Commanders continue to stall, the Chargers could step in with a compelling trade offer, giving McLaurin both a fresh start and a chance to play a central role in a revamped offense.
He has 460 receptions with 38 touchdowns in his career. And since McLaurin was drafted in 2019, he has caught the 11th-most passes and 13th-most touchdowns by a receiver.
Another Reunion
GettyIs it time for another reunion in Los Angeles?
If the trade market proves to be too complex or expensive, the Chargers could opt to bring back a familiar face in Keenan Allen, who has shown an interest in returning to Los Angeles.
Allen spent 11 seasons with the Chargers and is widely regarded as one of the most savvy route runners in the league. While age and injuries are a concern, Allen is coming off a 744-yard, seven-touchdown season with the Chicago Bears. His leadership and familiarity with the Chargers could be the short-term move the team could make.
But what the team will likely do is stay the course and roll with what’s already on the roster. While this may seem risky, especially in light of Harris’ holdout, the Chargers have a few young receivers worth developing.
Players like Quentin Johnston and rookie KeAndre Lambert-Smith are expected to step up, and Ladd McConkey has already established himself as one of the top wide receivers in the NFL. Plus, the Chargers can always say “screw it” and put rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden at wideout, since he has the experience and build to play the position.
Ultimately, the Chargers must decide whether to act swiftly and aggressively or remain patient and see how their internal talent develops.
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