The Mike Williams reunion never got off the ground in Los Angeles. Days after being put on the PUP list, the former first-round pick announced his retirement on the first day of LA Chargers training camp.
This is shocking news that no fan expected which also leaves the Chargers in a bind. The Chargers are losing an important veteran who was going to serve an important role as one of the team's two X receivers. With the No. 1 goal being to surround Justin Herbert with weapons, the discussion has now turned to what's next.
For many, the answer to that question is none other than Keenan Allen. Many Chargers fans have wanted this reunion all offseason and with Allen out of the picture, those fans let the team know loud and clear how they feel during the first day of camp.
“Bring back Keenan” chants here at Chargers training camp
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) July 17, 2025
Chargers fans demand a Keenan Allen reunion after Mike Williams retires
If one reunion doesn't work, why not try another?
Allen returning to the Chargers has been a hot topic among fans this offseason. Allen made it clear early in the offseason he only wanted to play in Chicago or Los Angeles, leaving many to believe he would make his triumphant return to the Bolts.
Those in favor of Allen coming back want him because of the rapport he has with Justin Herbert and because of how valuable he is as a red-zone and third-down receiver. Those against Allen point out the redundancies in his game with Ladd McConkey.
To be fair, there are some redundancies in Allen and McConkey's game as both players are better in the slot. However, both guys have also proven they can play outside, and while neither is an X receiver, having one of them operate as the Z still has value.
Let's think about the alternative. Without Allen, the Chargers would presumably play Tre Harris and Quentin Johnston on the outside with Harris as the X receiver and Johnston as the Z receiver. With Allen, the Chargers give themselves the chance to play him at Z (or McConkey in certain looks), with Harris still starting at the X.
I don't care how you slice it. Allen, even at this point in his career, is a more reliable pass-catching option in have-to-have-it situations than Johnston. Would you rather have Allen and McConkey on the field together on third down, or Johnston and McConkey?
Chargers fans who were chanting for Allen at training camp recognize this reality. And while it might not be a perfect replacement for Williams, the Chargers can't let perfect get in the way of great.
Signing Allen, given the situation and the time of year, would be a great move.