We are witnessing the start of a new era at wide receiver for the Los Angeles Chargers. Following the team’s release of Mike Williams, it appeared as though Keenan Allen would stick around in Los Angeles and serve as the team’s top passing target.
Then Jay Glazer of NFL on Fox reported that Allen is headed to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick on Thursday night. Now it looks like Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert will be throwing to a few new weapons in 2024.
Following their latest moves, which wide receivers are currently projected to start in Los Angeles? Let’s take a closer look at their wide receiver depth chart.
Los Angeles Chargers WR Depth Chart
- Quentin Johnston
- Joshua Palmer
- Derius Davis
- Simi Fehoko
The Chargers have just four wide receivers on their roster presently. Johnston and Davis were selected by Los Angeles in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite being chosen with the 22nd overall pick, Johnston struggled in his first season in the NFL.
In 17 games, Johnston recorded just 38 receptions on 67 targets for 431 yards and two touchdowns. If the Chargers are going to compete next season, they are clearly going to need Johnston to take a massive step forward in Year 2.
Davis primarily saw the field as a returner during his rookie season. Although he was active for 17 games, Davis started just two at wide receiver. He finished his rookie campaign with 15 receptions on 17 targets for just 66 yards. Heading into his second season, Davis will likely compete for more snaps at slot wide receiver.
Palmer is heading into the final year of his rookie contract, which is likely the biggest opportunity of his career as well. The 24-year-old wide receiver has shown flashes of WR1 potential at times, although he hasn’t been able to put it all together just yet.
Fehoko has just four catches in three NFL seasons. While he offers intriguing size, he is signed to a minimum contract and will likely be battling for a roster spot in training camp.
Who Will the Chargers Add at WR?
Following their latest moves at wide receiver, the Chargers have one of the weakest groups in the NFL. The four wide receivers on their roster have limited experience and haven’t shown enough flashes to be handed starting jobs.
Therefore, the Chargers must look to improve their WR room in a multitude of ways. Despite the top names being signed rather quickly, there are still some intriguing pass catchers available in free agency. Los Angeles would be wise to target veterans such as Tyler Boyd, Hunter Renfrow, Allen Robinson, and Michael Thomas.
Yet, the best path for Los Angeles to take in order to improve their situation at wide receiver is in the 2024 NFL Draft. This year’s class is absolutely stacked at wide receiver, and the Chargers will be in the perfect position to land one of the top prospects in the first round.
Los Angeles holds the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, which could put them in position to select the top WR on their board. Even if the Arizona Cardinals select Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick, the Chargers will have their choice between Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze.
While it seems like the Chargers took a step back at wide receiver right now, they are in a solid position moving forward. Los Angeles should be able to land multiple WRs in this year’s draft and assemble a promising group of playmakers around Herbert in 2024.
KEEP READING: NFL Free Agency Grades 2024
Miss football? The 2024 NFL Draft is almost here, boss. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!
