Former 1,000-Yard Receiver Named Chargers ‘Biggest Wild Card’

The Los Angeles Chargers underwent some major changes during the 2024 offseason. With a new regime in place, led by general manager Joe Horitz and head coach Jim Harbaugh, some roster upheaval occurred.

Some of those moves their hands were forced, as the salary cap situation they inherited wasn’t great. Changes also have to be made with philosophical differences with the new regime compared to the last.

Offensively, the Chargers are going to look a lot different. The weaponry around quarterback Justin Herbert has been torn down compared to what he has worked with in his career.

Gone are veteran wide receivers Mike Williams and Keenan Allen. Williams signed with the New York Jets, while Allen was traded to the Chicago Bears.

Joining Allen in Chicago is tight end Gerald Everett. Running back Austin Ekeler also departed in free agency, landing with the Washington Commanders.

That has left Herbert with one of the least inspiring group of skill position players in the NFL. 2023 first-round pick Quentin Johnston, Joshua Palmer and rookie Ladd McConkey are atop the wide receiver depth chart.

But, there is one veteran that the team is hoping can produce for them. DJ Chark Jr. was signed in free agency and was named the Chargers’ biggest wild card entering training camp in 2024 .

“The Los Angeles Chargers are embracing a bit of a youth movement at wide receiver in 2024. Despite all of the team’s young talent at the position, DJ Chark Jr. could be the wild card for the Chargers.

The 27-year-old might be the older veteran of the group, but he could flourish with Justin Herbert throwing him the ball,” Anthony DiBona of Pro Football Network wrote .

Chark made the Pro Bowl in his second season as a pro with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He caught 73 passes for 1,008 yards and eight touchdowns in a breakout campaign.

Unfortunately for him, he was unable to build on that success. Injuries have played a major part in not replicating that success, as he has missed multiple games every season.

The Chargers are certainly hoping that he can show some of that former form in 2024. The opportunity to be a starter exists in Los Angeles, as Chark is the most experienced wide receiver on the roster.

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