There are a lot of variables around this LA Chargers offseason after the team fell short in the AFC Wild Card Round against the Jacksonville Jaguars. With the team needing to clear over $20 million just to be cap complacent, this offseason is certainly going to be an interesting one.
One of the smaller variables that has been getting swept under the rug is the team's backup quarterback situation. The backup quarterback may not seem that important but after watching Justin Herbert struggle with injuries in 2022, it is nice to have a safe option. That is especially true with a new offense being implemented in 2023.
Chase Daniel is likely heading off to retirement to be a full-time analyst and the Chargers did not like Easton Stick enough to activate him for gamedays. With that in mind, we may see the Bolts pursue a backup quarterback this offseason. Some options are better than others.
The 3 best backup quarterback options for the LA Chargers this offseason:
3. Nick Mullens
The Chargers could go out and sign an older veteran to replace Daniel but that is not the route the team should go. They no longer need someone who can help Justin Herbert progress as a pro and instead need someone that could potentially come in and try to keep the team afloat in case of emergency.
They are not going to be able to afford the premium backup quarterbacks but among the cheap ones, Nick Mullens is one of the best options. We have seen Mullens succeed as a starting quarterback in Kyle Shanahan's offense and having that experience is beneficial.
Mullens spent the 2022 season as Kirk Cousins' backup in Minnesota but did not make a start. He did make a start for the Cleveland Browns in 2021 and wasn't awful; completing 20 of 30 passes for 147 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions. Not good, but he didn't cost the Browns that game.