Under the watchful eye of Jim Harbaugh, it's clear that the LA Chargers are striving to remedy their cap situation. They have a whopping $51.437 million in dead money for the 2024 season. A bulk of that sum comes from J.C. Jackson, who's one of the worst free agent signings in Chargers history.
Former wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams account for nearly half of that total after they were traded and released this offseason, respectively.
With so much dead cap and having shed significant talent on offense, this is without question a reset year for the Chargers. Justin Herbert could have LA in the running for a wild card berth when all is said and done, but fans should temper expectations for Harbaugh's first year at the helm.
Or should they?
ESPN writer Matt Bowen compiled the best team fits for remaining free agents and trade targets (subscription required). Shockingly, the Chargers made the list as the top destination for Bengals star receiver Tee Higgins.
Xavien Howard to #Texans
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) May 20, 2024
Calais Campbell to #Eagles
Michael Thomas to #Cowboys
@MattBowen41 projects fits for remaining free agents https://t.co/PhY4hQu0G7
Chargers named as ideal trade partner for Bengals WR Tee Higgins
Higgins is currently entangled in a contract standoff with the Bengals. He was franchise-tagged in March and has yet to sign his tender. ESPN insider Adam Schefter understands that Higgins won't sign the tender by next week, which would make him ineligible to report to the team for OTAs next week.
This doesn't mean a Higgins trade is imminent, however. Since Higgins was tagged, he and the Bengals have until July 15 to negotiate an extension. If they can't find a middle ground, Higgins will be restricted to a one-year contract for the 2024 season.
It's worth noting, though, that Higgins request a trade before the NFL Draft. That doesn't mean Cincinnati will adhere to it, but it leaves the door open nonetheless.
The Bengals would be reluctant to deal Higgins within the AFC, but most of their potential partners likely reside in the conference. The Jaguars, Patriots and Jets spring to mind as possible suitors. Essentially, Cincinnati has to decide whether it wants to chase a Super Bowl with Higgins before losing him for nothing next offseason, or to cash in now from a desperate team.
The Chargers check that box in spades after losing Allen and Williams. Rookie Ladd McConkey is more of an intermediate WR that will feast in the middle of the field. As a classic X receiver who lives along the sidelines, Higgins and McConkey complement each other perfectly for Justin Herbert.
It's wishful thinking that Higgins ends up with the Chargers, but they suddenly have the financial means to facilitate a trade thanks to Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz if the Bengals are willing to talk shop.