Could the Chargers Take Flier on Former First-Round Pick WR?

The Bolts could use all the help they can get in their wide receiver room. But could this move benefit them?

The 2024 Los Angeles Chargers are undergoing significant changes on the offensive front, with a series of moves aimed at freeing up cap space and making necessary adjustments. 

While offseason changes were expected, the extent and targets of these moves have been surprising. One of the most notable decisions was parting ways with wide receiver Mike Williams, a former first-round draft pick in 2017, who spent seven years with the Chargers. 

The team also made a stunning move by trading longtime Charger and former third-round pick Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round pick.

With these departures, the wide receiver room for the upcoming season will undergo a substantial transformation. The Chargers may turn to the draft or explore free agency to replenish their pass-catching arsenal. 

One available option is former first-round pick Corey Davis, who was recently released by the New York Jets. 

Official: The Jets have released WR Corey Davis from the reserve/retired list, making him free to sign with any team. A return to the #Jets is possible.

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) March 14, 2024

However, signing Davis would not be advisable for the Bolts.

Firstly, Davis did not play football during the 2023 season, opting to take a break and being listed as reserve/retired. 

Although the Jets retained his rights, they ultimately decided to release him. Given this hiatus from the game, it's unlikely that Davis would be able to make an immediate impact upon his return. 

Moreover, at 29 years old, Davis is on the older side, and the Chargers would be better served by investing in younger talent.

Fortunately, the upcoming draft presents ample opportunities to acquire promising and talented wide receivers. With the number five pick, the Chargers have a prime opportunity to select a young playmaker who can immediately contribute. 

Given the wealth of top-end talent available at the wide receiver position in this year's draft class, the Chargers should not hesitate to address this need early on.

Davis, a former fifth overall pick by the Tennessee Titans, has had a mediocre career. After a year away from the game, it's unlikely that he would be able to seamlessly integrate into any NFL team and immediately make an impact. The Bolts would be wise to avoid pursuing Davis in free agency.

Los Angeles' best course of action is to focus on the abundance of young talent available in the upcoming draft. By prioritizing youth and potential, the Chargers can position themselves for long-term success and avoid short-sighted signings that may not yield the desired results.