EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Free agency started almost three weeks ago and the Chargers had over $90 million in cap space. They have used about $60 million of it bringing players in and re-signing some of their own guys.
They didn’t go for the Davante Adams or DK Metcalf but they did get players who fit their system. They also signed players who have a lot of potential to become playmakers on their team.
Here are the grades for free agency so far:
Mekhi Becton, RG
The grade should be an A but the injury history is a concern but at the same time Becton was not the same player with the Eagles as he was with the Jets. If he comes in to play right guard is what he was in Philadelphia then the right side of the Chargers offensive line becomes their strong side with Joe Alt at right tackle. This could prove to be a huge signing literally and figuratively.
Grade: B+
Andre James, C
James is an interesting piece to the team because in 2023 he was one of the better centers in the NFL but when the Raiders made a switch at offensive coordinator he struggled in zone. The Chargers are more of a gap/power, which is James’ bread and butter. This brings competition and a veteran presence that could turn into a big addition if he plays a big role.
Grade: B-
Mike Williams, WR
This addition might have made Justin Herbert smile like he hasn’t smiled in a long time. In the video of Williams touring the new facility Jim Harbaugh told him “A lot of people are excited you are back.” Williams will be two seasons removed from tearing his ACL and being back with Herbert, he could be in for a bounce back season.
Grade: B+
Najee Harris, RB
Everything about this move was smart by the Chargers. They get a bully running back that could tire out a defense by the fourth quarter and with the offensive line additions Harris could be in for a big season. His price tag of $5.25 million is very team friendly.
Grade: A
Khalil Mack
The leadership and pass rushing ability is still there. This was a slam dunk by the team.
Grade: A+
Tony Jefferson, S
The veteran safety provided a lot of leadership in the secondary team. After being out of the NFL for a couple of seasons he proved that he still has something left in the tank.
Grade: B
Tyler Conklin, TE
This was a good veteran tight end move. Conklin has been serviceable to the Vikings and Jets with having 500+ receiving yards from 2021-2023 (he had 449 last season). The Chargers still lack a number one tight end but Conklin will be a good piece for their offense.
Grade: B
Del’Shawn Phillips, LB
This is another Baltimore Ravens connection. Phillips seems to find the ball when it is on the ground whether it be on defense or special teams. He seems to be a Nick Neimann replacement and should be a solid special teams player.
Grade: C+
Taylor Heinicke, QB
Solid backup quarterback that has experience playing in the NFL. He was with the team last year after they traded for him right before the season started.
Grade: B-
Da’Shawn Hand, DL
Hand could be a diamond in the rough addition for the defensive line. The Chargers defensive line was good but struggled against the run and this addition could help in that area. This time next year don’t be surprised if he gets a Poona Ford style contract.
Grade: A-
Elijah Molden
Another late trade before the season started and turned out to be big time for the defense. Molden starts opposite of Derwin James in 2025 and should continue to grow as he is a young safety.
Grade: A
Naquan Jones, DL
Another low risk high reward defensive lineman for the Chargers defense. Jones wreaked havoc against the Chargers in their Monday night matchup against the Cardinals, so they know what he can do. Slowly this defensive line is taking shape.
Grade: B+
Donte Jackson, CB
This just adds another piece to the secondary that struggled at times especially with run support. Jackson is willing to put his body on the line to make tackles. He makes plays on the ball but sometimes gambles don’t pay off.
Grade: C+
Benjamin St-Juste, CB
Former Michigan player bingo card. St-Juste is a big cornerback at 6’3, so he has length. He struggled at times with the Commanders last season but maybe with coaching he could improve in 2025. He also isn’t afraid to tackle and help with run support.
Grade: C-
Denzel Perryman, LB
He was a solid addition for the Chargers last season but struggled to stay healthy. Down the stretch he sustained a groin injury. Perryman is still a good run stopping linebacker.
Grade: B-
Troy Dye, LB
Good special teams player and stepped up when asked on defense. There was a drop off from Perryman to Dye but that is because they have different styles.
Grade: B-
Teair Tart, DT
This was a diamond in the rough signing that turned out to be big time for the Chargers. Tart’s production grew during the season and he showed he was a big part of the line. The Chargers couldn’t afford to lose both he and Ford.
Grade: B+
Jalen Reagor, WR
Not sure what the Chargers are going to do with Reagor in 2025 but they wanted him back.
Grade: D
Bradley Bozeman, C
Bozeman was a great locker room guy for the team. That being said he struggled at the center position and that is a big reason why the team brought James in. Bozeman is going to have competition this season.
Grade: C-
JK Scott, P
Scott has been a solid punter for the Chargers since arriving in 2022. The Chargers might bring in more competition but he has been a good punter for them that has good hang time.
Grade: B