The Los Angeles Chargers are doing everything they can to support star quarterback Justin Herbert this offseason. After filling a huge need at center earlier in the week, the Chargers made another savvy addition before NFL free agency begins.
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reports the Chargers have signed fullback Alec Ingold to a two-year, $7.5 million contract. Ingold was released by the Miami Dolphins two days ago, but he should be a seamless fit in the Chargers' new offense, led by former Dolphins coach and new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
Ingold spent the last four seasons in Miami with McDaniel as a valuable asset in the run game and as a pass-catcher. He caught eight passes for 52 yards last season and was often used as an extra blocker, which is something Herbert could really use in the backfield.
The fullback spent three seasons with the Raiders before joining McDaniel in Miami, giving him some familiarity with the AFC West as well.
The Chargers have been aggressive in the pre-free agency market. They signed former Commanders center Tyler Biadasz to a three-year deal earlier in the week. Biadasz and Ingold were permitted to sign before Monday's legal-tampering window opens because they were released as cap casualties, giving them the ability to sign as soon as possible. Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz wasted no time.
Ingold's new deal in Los Angeles ties him with 49ers' fullback Kyle Juszczyk as the highest-paid fullback in the NFL. He will be tasked with clearly laying out a path for Chargers running back Omarion Hampton to follow next season.
All of this activity before free agency begins suggests the Chargers could be very active on the open market this offseason. The team already paid to bring back edge rusher Khalil Mack on a one-year deal, and there are rumors that the Chargers are entertaining a potential trade for Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown.
The Chargers still have more than $90 million in cap space to spend during free agency, so the team could sign more playmakers for McDaniels' offense before the draft arrives.
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