Chargers Hold Firm on Veterans as Trade Deadline Nears

The Los Angeles Chargers have received calls about edge rushers Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu but have shown no willingness to trade either player as the NFL deadline approaches. The team has also been linked to possible discussions involving Donte Jackson, Quentin Johnston, Dalvin Tomlinson, Denzel Perryman and Bud Dupree.

Los Angeles entered the season looking to build on two consecutive 11-6 finishes under coach Jim Harbaugh and compete in the AFC West. Instead, the 2026 campaign has been difficult, raising questions about whether the team should trade veterans and seek additional draft picks for the future.

Moving experienced players could give the Chargers more resources for offseason planning, but a broad sell-off is not the only option. Keeping some veterans could preserve leadership and stability for younger players, while trading others may make sense if they are not part of the team’s longer-term plans.

The front office, led by general manager Joe Hortiz, must weigh those competing considerations rather than make changes simply because the season has gone poorly. The Chargers appear reluctant to rush into deals, though their position could shift as the deadline draws closer.