The Los Angeles Chargers still need another dependable option at the wide receiver position. And it just so happens that one of the franchise's best-ever offensive weapons is still available on the open market.
Keenan Allen remains without a home with the most frantic part of free agency in the rearview mirror. His one season with the Chicago Bears didn't quite go according to plan, so a return to more familiar surroundings could be enough to galvanize his career if there's mutual interest either before or after the 2025 NFL Draft.
Jim Harbaugh didn't dismiss potential Chargers' reunion with Keenan Allen
Jim Harbaugh didn't rule out the possibility of Allen returning to the fold. Instead, the experienced head coach seemed to swing the door wide open for the Pro Bowler to come on board during his media availability at the annual NFL league meetings.
Jim Harbaugh on bringing back Keenan Allen: “Anything’s possible. That would be cool.”
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) March 31, 2025
Allen is still beloved by the Chargers fanbase despite being traded to the Bears last offseason. The former third-round pick spent the first 11 seasons of his pro career with the club, gaining 904 receptions for 10,530 receiving yards and 59 touchdowns. He's a six-time Pro Bowler who was widely regarded as an exceptional leadership presence in the locker room to further enhance his influence.
This would be nothing more than a short-term solution. Allen will be 33 years old next season with a lot of tread on the tires. Even so, his previous chemistry with quarterback Justin Herbert and the fact Harbaugh's offense is more balanced these days takes some pressure off on this scenario.
If he did re-join the squad, it gives the Chargers a potentially prolific quartet for Herbert to depend upon. Ladd McConkey, Mike Williams, and Quentin Johnston's athletic traits complement each other well. Adding Allen — an exceptional route runner with assured hands who knows how to get open — could be the missing piece of the puzzle.
It would be an emotional return for Allen after one season away from the organization. Much will depend on the money involved, but the wideout might be willing to accept a one-year, incentivized deal to come back. He's made enough money throughout a glittering career, so finding the right fit is probably a much bigger priority with his playing days winding down.
There aren't many better places. Allen is familiar with the franchise and has the winning mentality Harbaugh typically looks for. This also provides the productive pass-catcher with an opportunity to finish what he started and potentially assist the Chargers' quest to make an impact in the AFC West en route to the postseason.
Allen's place in Chargers' folklore is already secure. Adding to his legacy before retirement would be nothing short of a fairytale.