Like most other years, free agents were flying off the board left and right when the period opened last week. After teams shelled out more than $2 billion in total contract money, it appears that the market is finally settling.
The Los Angeles Chargers made waves during the NFL Scouting Combine last month when they unveiled their unique plan to shy away from high-profile players, so now is the perfect time to strike.
The majority of the high-end talent is gone and most of what remains are depth pieces and castaways with untapped potential, which is right up the Chargers alley.
After their debacle of a playoff game against the Houston Texans that saw the team spiral after a handful of drops by their receivers, it was clear Los Angeles needed to overhaul the passing game.
They were a little late to the party, but they finally made their first significant offensive signing.
© Troy Taormina-Imagn Images © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Chargers have come to an agreement with tight end Tyler Conklin.
Former Jets TE Tyler Conklin reached agreement on a one-year deal with the Chargers, per his agent @MikeMcCartney7.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 21, 2025
While the former Jets pass catcher hasn't posted any eye-popping numbers in his career, he has been a model of consistency with at least 500 yards and three touchdowns three times in the last four years apiece.
It's fair to mention that although Conklin has never produced like an elite tight end, he's never played with an elite quarterback before.
So, pairing up with a rising star like Justin Herbert could unlock a sleeping giant within the former fifth-round pick.
Schefter also mentioned that the deal is only worth up to $4.5 million, so there is very little risk to bringing Conklin into the fold.
If the connection between he and Herbert is strong like it projects to be, then he could very well outperform his contract.
These are the types of low-risk high-reward signings the Chargers have been chasing all offseason.
If these additions end up making a large impact on the season, the organization could improve their standing with a fanbase that has grown irritable with the team's inactivity on the open market.
Related: Free Agent TE Tyler Conklin Meets With AFC Contender
Copyright 2025 Athlon Sports. All rights reserved.
This story was originally published March 22, 2025 at 7:22 AM.
Sports Pass is your ticket to Kansas City sports
#ReadLocal