Chargers News: Keenan Allen Reveals Element of Bolts 2023 Season Led to His "Down Year"

Keenan Allen reveals what led to his "down year" with the Chargers.

The Los Angeles Chargers made a shocking move during free agency after they traded WR Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears. Allen was asked to take a pay cut to alleviate some cap room for the team, which he declined. 

The result was Allen being traded instead. This leaves the WR room for the Chargers very thin. However, this is no longer Allen's problem, and he also spoke candidly about the dismal 2023 season for the team. 

Austin Ekeler said the Chargers had "a different philosophy" last season, contributing to his down year. Also had a string of injuries. "Just trying to battle through, not trying to make excuses ... it was unfortunately not as good of a year as I've had in the past."

— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) March 18, 2024

Allen was critical of his 2023 performance, which had been marred with injuries for the generally tough WR. He would miss a total of four games from a pedal heel bruise. 

Even with missing four games, Allen still pulled in 1,243 yards and 7 TDs. He still described this as a "down year" but pointed more to the different philosophy that the Chargers had last season. 

That philosophy was likely one that former head coach Brandon Staley had implemented. Staley was relieved of his duties, along with GM Tom Telesco, who is now with the Raiders. 

Staley was often criticized for his playcalling, especially given he controlled the defensive side of the ball. Even when he was asked about relinquishing control, he would often get upset at the questions. 

Allen may have been subject to Staley's downfalls, which is why the team ended the season with a 5-12 record. The Chargers were playoff and Super Bowl hopefuls a season ago, but 2023 was a down year for everyone. 

New head coach Jim Harbaugh is set to implement a new philosophy of toughness, but he will have to do so without Allen.