The LA Chargers had two main wide-receiver targets this offseason: DK Metcalf and Davante Adams. Unfortunately, Chargers fans watched both receivers land with other teams on the same day, within minutes of each other.
That pain continued into Monday as the best receiver on the market quickly came off the board. Veteran wide receiver Chris Godwin is re-signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a three-year, $66 million contract.
It is unclear whether or not the Chargers were actually in on Godwin but he would have been a nice addition to the team. Now, the Bolts must go back to the drawing board and look at the other options available.
Chargers' options at wide receiver are dwindling after Chris Godwin re-signs with Buccaneers
In fairness, the Chargers may have never had a chance to sign Godwin, anyway. The Buccaneers had a clear advantage with Godwin and may have even gotten him back at a slight discount considering what Adams and Metcalf signed for.
It does not change the fact, though, that the remaining wide receiver options took a step down. Signing Godwin to a three-year, $66 million deal would have been a godsend for the Bolts.
With Godwin off the board, the best remaining option for the Bolts very well may be Keenan Allen. Allen has been clear about his desire to return to Los Angeles next season and while he may no longer be in his prime, he would be a welcomed addition to the offense.
Giving Justin Herbert someone he is familiar with and comfortable throwing to would boost the offensive production. There may be some overlap in what Allen does with Ladd McConkey now on the team but there is nothing wrong with having extra receiver depth, especially if the price is right.
Plus, Allen would provide a massive boost to the Chargers in third down and red-zone situations. Even if he is past his prime, he proved on the Chicago Bears last season that he can still produce in that capacity.
Other than Allen, the next best option is likely Cooper Kupp, who will eventually be traded or cut by the LA Rams. Like Allen, Kupp is on the wrong side of 30 and has far more injury concerns. Bringing back Allen would be a better move.
If not either of those two big names, Darius Slayton is someone who Chargers fans have discussed in free agency. Unfortunately, Slayton wouldn't move the needle.