The Los Angeles Chargers are completely revamping their offensive line, making way for some new faces to start next season. One of the names under increased scrutiny is veteran offensive lineman Trey Pipkins. Once expected to be a foundational piece on the offensive line, Pipkins now finds himself on the chopping block.
After signing a three-year, $21.75 million extension with the Chargers in 2023, Pipkins was viewed as a long-term solution at right tackle. However, following a shaky season in which he surrendered six sacks and posted a disappointing 57.8 grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), his future with the team appears uncertain.
Trey Pipkins’ Future With the Chargers in Jeopardy
The Chargers experimented with Pipkins at guard during last season in an attempt to maximize his value, but the move has not paid dividends. His underwhelming performance at guard — typically a position where linemen often find greater success —raises serious concerns about Pipkins’ versatility and long-term fit on the roster, especially when compared to new teammate Mekhi Becton, who made a successful transition to guard last season with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Complicating matters is Pipkins’ hefty $6.75 million base salary in the final year of his deal. While it’s not a massive payout, it’s a steep price for a player who is likely riding the bench. Releasing Pipkins would free up that amount in cap space with the Chargers only paying $2.5 million in dead money. Given that Los Angeles already has nearly $25 million in cap room, cutting ties with Pipkins could offer even more financial flexibility for the team to potentially make more moves this offseason.
The writing may be on the wall for the 28-year-old lineman. Unless he shows significant improvement during training camp or proves he can offer true positional flexibility, his time with the Bolts could soon come to an end.
Pipkins Could Still Hold Value on Another Team
GettyJustin Herbert #10 and Trey Pipkins #79 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrate a touchdown.
It may be best for both sides to move on. Pipkins would likely attract interest around the league if the Chargers release him. Despite his recent struggles, he still has 56 career starts under his belt since being drafted in the third round in 2019.
The key for any potential starter would be finding the right role for him. Pipkins’ struggles at guard may have lowered his value, but his experience at right tackle, where he started nearly every game during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, should not be overlooked. He played a part in keeping quarterback Justin Herbert upright during a turbulent couple of seasons and managed to stay relatively healthy in a physically demanding role.
Nate Gosney of Last Word on Sports recently suggested the Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, and New York Giants as potential landing spots for Pipkins. While he likely won’t start immediately, he could serve as an experienced backup who can step in when injuries inevitably occur during the long NFL season.
In the end, whether Pipkins remains with the Chargers or finds a new home elsewhere, his NFL journey likely isn’t over. However, his future in Los Angeles is shaky. With the franchise turning the page, Pipkins will need to prove he’s more than just an overpaid backup.
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