The LA Chargers kicked off the 2024 season with one of the least impressive pass-catching units in the NFL. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Chargers have a key opportunity to strengthen this area, which has so far limited their potential.
Among the top wide receivers reportedly on the trade market is Diontae Johnson from the Carolina Panthers. Carolina initially acquired Johnson before the season, but with a disappointing 1-6 record and no signs of improvement, trading him for the remainder of the season could be a smart move.
Asked if decision on holding Diontae Johnson out is related to the trade deadline, Dave Canales says that’s a conversation for Dan Morgan and Brandt Tilis. pic.twitter.com/TmUbkjsCnq
— Joe Person (@josephperson) October 25, 2024
Johnson has made it clear he would welcome a trade, and the Chargers could be an ideal landing spot for him. The Panthers, meanwhile, are not doing much to dispel these trade rumors, as suggested by Dave Canales’ recent comments on Johnson and his potential departure.
Panthers all but confirm Diontae Johnson will be traded (and the Chargers must strike)
This is about as close as a team can get to publicly signaling a player will be traded without directly confirming it. At this point, it would be surprising if Johnson remains in Carolina after the Nov. 5 deadline.
That said, just because a trade seems likely doesn’t guarantee it will be to the Chargers. Many teams need wide receiver support this season, and with Johnson likely available at a reasonable price, the trade market could be competitive.
There may be some hesitation from the coaching staff due to how Johnson has handled his situation publicly, as he doesn’t seem to align with the culture Jim Harbaugh and his team are establishing in Los Angeles.
However, the Chargers won’t know for certain unless Johnson joins their roster. And even if there’s a slight culture clash, his contributions on the field would likely justify his cost.
While Johnson may not be a top-tier, transformative WR1, he’s an upgrade over the current Chargers receivers. Despite never playing with an above-average quarterback, he’s shown promising signs of performing at a high level.
The Chargers have already demonstrated their commitment to pursuing a playoff spot this season, as evidenced by playing Justin Herbert despite his ankle injury. If they’re serious about competing, they need to strengthen the roster to reflect that playoff ambition. As things stand, their receiving corps would be among the weakest in recent NFL history to make the playoffs.
Adding Johnson would help address that gap.
Be the first to comment