A total of fourteen teams secured a spot in the playoffs, all with aspirations of claiming the Lombardi Trophy.

The journey to Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans isn’t open to every team, as some come closer than others. The playoffs offer a rollercoaster of surprises, struggles, and emotions as teams vie for the championship. Yet, when a team’s playoff run ends, it marks the start of a new season in the offseason.

Key Free Agents for the Chargers in 2025

Khalil Mack, OLB

Mack’s contract is set to expire, and the team stands to save over $25 million if they decide to release Joey Bosa, according to Over The Cap. Both edge rushers adjusted their contracts to stay with the Chargers this past season. While Mack will turn 34 in February, he remains the Chargers’ most effective and reliable pass rusher, having earned Pro Bowl selections during his three years in Los Angeles. The Chargers are likely keen on signing the defensive leader to a short-term contract.

J.K. Dobbins, RB

Besides Justin Herbert, Dobbins stood out as the Chargers’ top offensive performer this season. He was in the running for Comeback Player of the Year until he was placed on injured reserve. Dobbins has faced injuries throughout his career, yet when he plays, he consistently delivers results, averaging 4.6 yards per carry and totaling a career-best 905 rushing yards in 13 games this year.

Poona Ford, DT

Ford emerged as a valuable asset for the Chargers. The defensive lineman proved disruptive, amassing 39 tackles along with tying his career-highs in sacks (3) and tackles for loss (8). Although the Chargers have limited depth at defensive tackle, Ford’s presence mitigated this issue since he started all 17 regular-season games.

Three Essential Moves for the Chargers

Focus on Wide Receiver

The Chargers’ passing game ranked 19th, with Justin Herbert averaging a career-low 227 yards per game. A shift in offensive philosophy played a role in these statistics, as offensive coordinator Greg Roman favors a run-heavy approach. Currently, the team lacks a wide receiver who can create consistent separation aside from slot receiver Ladd McConkey. Although Quentin Johnston showed progress in his second season, he functions best as a Z-receiver. To elevate their game, the Chargers need to recruit a playmaking X-receiver.

Strengthen the Defensive Line

With the Chargers’ top three defensive linemen, Poona Ford, Morgan Fox, and Teair Tart, all approaching free agency, the team faces a challenge. Ford received an impressive overall grade of 85.1 from Pro Football Focus, ranking him fifth among qualifying defensive linemen. The Chargers will likely aim to retain at least two of these three players, but bolstering the defensive line will be a priority.

Enhance the Interior Offensive Line

Per ESPN, rookie right tackle Joe Alt had an impressive 94% pass block win rate, ranking as the fourth-best in the NFL. Left tackle Rashawn Slater only allowed three sacks throughout the season. Yet, the interior offensive line of the Chargers faced challenges, contributing to the team allowing 124 pressures overall.

Draft Needs for the Chargers

The team should focus on wide receiver, interior offensive line, and tight end.

Los Angeles currently holds eight selections in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, with compensatory picks to be announced later in the offseason.

Chargers will have picks in the following rounds:

• 1st round
• 2nd round
• 3rd round
• 4th round
• 5th round
• 6th round
• 6th round (via New England)
• 7th round (via Cleveland)