The first day of NFL free agency has been more bad than good for LA Chargers fans. Several fan-favorite targets signed with other teams while the Chargers decided to bring back questionable internal free agents.
Thankfully, the Chargers added another positive re-signing to join Khalil Mack on day one of free agency. After losing Poona Ford to the Los Angeles Rams, the Chargers re-signed fellow standout defensive tackle Teair Tart.
In a perfect world the Chargers would have kept both Ford and Tart after how well they played together in 2024. At least the team was able to keep one half of the band together as the focus now turns to building out the rest of the defensive line.
Full details of Chargers' Teair Tart deal:
- Length: One year
- Value: Up to $5.5 million
The Chargers re-signed Tart at an exceptional value. Tart seemingly could have demanded more in free agency with Ford getting just under $10 million a season but alas, his price was nearly half of that.
Tart's deal is reportedly worth up to $5.5 million and it is currently unclear where the base salary number falls. Whether or not Tart earns all $5.5 million will likely depend on his roster bonuses and if he has any incentive bonuses.
Tart will hit free agency again next offseason and depending how he plays in 2024, the Chargers may look to bring him back on a similar deal. By signing a one-year contract, the Chargers maintain their flexibility at the position.
Chargers grade for Teair Tart re-signing: B+
When compared to the rest of the moves the Chargers made (or missed out on), re-signing Teair Tart might seem like a disappointment. It is fair to be underwhelmed when re-signing Teair Tart is the second-biggest move of the first day of free agency.
That being said, the big picture does not change the value of the signing itself. Tart was an impactful player on the Chargers' defensive line in 2024 and getting him back for less than $6 million is great for the Bolts moving forward.
There is no long-term risk in this contract and if Tart doesn't work out the Chargers won't pay for it in the future. This is a smart deal to keep an important player in-house without sacrificing any kind of future flexibility.
It might be hard to celebrate after the day the Chargers had, but the Teair Tart deal is one worth celebrating.