Despite owning an 0-7 record, the Los Angeles Chargers don’t like the optics of being a seller ahead of Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Schefter reported the Chargers and coach Jim Harbaugh “don’t like the message of giving up on the season.”
Schefter and NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported Saturday L.A. is indicating to any interested suitors its biggest trade assets, including Khalil Mack, Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey, are unavailable.
Harbaugh has never had a losing record as an NFL coach, and his competitive drive sets him apart from some of his peers.
Alas, this is one situation where discretion is the better part of valor.
No NFL team has reached the playoffs after dropping its first seven games, and the Chargers have supplied little in the way of evidence leading you to believe a turnaround is imminent. Herbert’s performance in particular is concerning.
Holding onto Herbert and McConkey is at least justifiable.
Harbaugh has gone over the top in the past to praise his starting quarterback, and the two-time Pro Bowler is under contract through 2029. You can rationalize building around Herbert next year and beyond if you still believe in him.
Similarly, McConkey’s rookie deal runs for one more season, and he’ll turn 25 in a few days. He can be a long-term piece in the passing game regardless of how disastrous 2026 has been.
Mack is the trade asset that’s almost impossible to rationalize keeping. He’s a free agent at the end of the year, and he has already contemplated retirement once.
Schefter and Rapoport reported the Chargers “prioritized keeping Mack for the leadership he provides and talent he brings.” From a talent perspective, the 35-year-old is clearly past his peak, and the intangible benefits of his leadership are mitigated when things are so bad for the team.
The Athletic’s Jonathan Jones reported that Los Angeles’ approach to the deadline “has confounded rival teams who wish to peck at the Chargers’ carcass before Tuesday.” Jones added that some around the NFL “pointed to the head coach specifically” for why the organization is so steadfast.
That won’t be a comforting thought for fans who think Harbaugh may have lost his touch. Being unable to adapt and accept short-term pain for long-term gain is a recipe for eventual mediocrity or worse.
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