The LA Chargers' trade for Trevor Penning came just in time... literally. General manager Joe Hortiz's trade to acquire the tackle-guard prospect from the Saints for a 2027 sixth-round pick came in minutes before Tuesday's trade deadline.
Generally, guys that get to new teams on a Monday or Tuesday trade have a better chance at being able to play in a Sunday game. We'll see whether or not that ends up being the case for Penning against the Steelers in primetime.
Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh believes that Trevor Penning will probably start at tackle for the Chargers.
Jim Harbaugh was asked about the acquisition of Penning at media availability on Wednesday.
"Excited to get him in today into the fold. I feel like we got good players," Harbaugh started. "Enough good, tough-which we liked about him. Finishes, played a lot of football. I think he's kinda what we like. And fits in great with the room. Love the versatility, but also the ability to play tackle."
Harbaugh said finding his position along the offensive line is "what the week of practice will be for". While Harbaugh praised his positional versatility as a tackle/guard, he also clarified that "it begins with tackle". Harbaugh said both tackle spots would potentially be options for Penning at RT and LT.
Penning played left guard this season for the Saints after playing right tackle in 2024 and left tackle in 2023. Last season, he allowed 54 pressures and five sacks. This season at guard has technically been the highest pass blocking efficiency of his career.
Still, Penning is tied for 87th in PBE amongst guards. He's also posting nearly the lowest PFF run blocking grade of his career at 49.6 this season. If Penning is going to have some success this year, it's probably more likely to come at tackle given the Chargers' health issues at the position.
Penning was a fine dart throw by GM Joe Hortiz, but it remains to be seen just how much of an upgrade he'll be over names like Austin Deculus or Jamaree Salyer. Hopefully, he gets a good enough week of practice in to flash some of his skillset against the Steelers defensive line on Sunday night.