There’s been a significant shake-up in the LA Chargers’ wide receiver room this offseason, with Keenan Allen traded to the Chicago Bears and Mike Williams released, leaving Joshua Palmer as the de facto WR1 until further moves are made.
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz acknowledged that the team isn’t finished with its wide receiver moves. It’s expected that they will use an early pick in the 2024 NFL Draft on a wide receiver and also sign a veteran in free agency.
Despite intriguing options like Odell Beckham Jr., Michael Gallup, Tyler Boyd, and Hunter Renfrow on the market, the Chargers are reportedly interested in a different free-agent wide receiver, one familiar to AFC West fans: Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Valdes-Scantling may offer the speed the Chargers seek, but he hasn’t fully capitalized on his potential despite playing with quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers and Patrick Mahomes. His time with the Chiefs was especially disappointing, as he struggled to become a consistent weapon.
Last season, Valdes-Scantling had just 315 yards on 21 catches with one touchdown in Kansas City. His speed didn’t significantly impact the Chiefs’ offense, and his issues with drops persisted.
His release by the Chiefs, a team in need of wide receivers, doesn’t bode well. While signing him wouldn’t affect the Chargers’ compensatory formula, other available receivers like Beckham, Gallup, and Renfrow also wouldn’t count against it.
While none of these options are coming off elite seasons, they all seem to have more potential impact than Valdes-Scantling in Los Angeles. Despite not being considered for the WR1 role, the Chargers should aim for a more impactful signing given their cap space.
