Chargers Unlikely to Pursue Giants Star in Trade

Los Angeles team takes conservative approach to offseason moves so far

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:07am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game, with sharp, overlapping shapes and planes representing the complex strategic decisions facing the Chargers' front office.The Chargers' cautious offseason approach contrasts with the bold moves needed to build a championship-caliber roster.Los Angeles Today

The Los Angeles Chargers, led by general manager Joe Hortiz, have maintained a conservative and cautious approach to the offseason, avoiding major trades or free agent splashes despite having nearly $100 million in cap space and a win-now mentality around star quarterback Justin Herbert. While the team could use a playmaker next to Teair Tart on defense, the Chargers are unlikely to pursue a blockbuster trade for New York Giants defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who recently requested a trade and is seeking a lucrative contract extension.

Why it matters

The Chargers' conservative approach this offseason stands in contrast to their stated goal of building a championship-caliber roster around Herbert. Failing to make bold moves to improve the team could hamper their chances of competing for a Super Bowl in the near future.

The details

The Chargers have only five draft picks currently and would likely be hesitant to give up more to acquire Lawrence, who has two years left on his contract and is seeking a deal worth over $30 million per year. The team is also focused on ensuring a smooth transition from former defensive coordinator Jesse Minter to new coordinator Chris O'Leary.

  • The Chargers have maintained a conservative approach throughout the 2023 NFL offseason.

The players

Joe Hortiz

The general manager of the Los Angeles Chargers, known for his cautious approach to roster moves.

Justin Herbert

The star quarterback of the Los Angeles Chargers, around whom the team is building a championship-caliber roster.

Teair Tart

A defensive player for the Los Angeles Chargers who could use a playmaking partner on the defensive line.

Dexter Lawrence

A defensive tackle for the New York Giants who recently requested a trade and is seeking a lucrative contract extension.

Chris O'Leary

The new defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, taking over from Jesse Minter.

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What they’re saying

“Chargers should be in on Dexter Lawrence. Plenty of cap space and they need to make a big move.”

— Ted Nguyen, Analyst

“His APY is south of $22 million. The top of the market for interior defensive linemen has reached $31.75 million. The recent contract signed by Eagles defensive tackle Jordan Davis — who is very good but is not Dexter Lawrence — has a new-money APY of $26 million.”

— Mike Florio, Analyst

What’s next

The Chargers will continue to evaluate their roster and options as the offseason progresses, but a blockbuster trade for Dexter Lawrence appears unlikely given their conservative approach and limited draft capital.

The takeaway

The Chargers' reluctance to make bold moves this offseason, despite having the resources to do so, could hamper their chances of building a championship-caliber roster around Justin Herbert in the near future.