The Los Angeles Chargers set their initial 53-man roster for about 24 hours. Then, true to his word, general manager Joe Hortiz got to work mining the league for depth and value.
In a whirlwind of moves, the Chargers traded for backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke and defensive back Elijah Molden, claimed running back Hassan Haskins off waivers, released safety JT Woods, and added 15 players to their practice squad.
This followed months of post-draft roster building. From May to August, the Chargers also signed wide receiver DJ Chark, offensive lineman Alex Leatherwood, safety Tony Jefferson, tight end Tucker Fisk, interior defensive lineman Teair Tart, quarterback Luis Perez, and several others.
Hortiz refuses to fall into the complacent habits of former Chargers general manager Tom Telesco. An NFL roster is never set-and-forget; yet, aside from perhaps one season, Telesco let the season come to him and watch as proactive teams passed up the franchise he led. Funny enough, the one time Telesco made a handful of post-draft moves they all paid off. Morgan Fox, Kyle Van Noy, and Bryce Callahan were all great post-draft signings that made significant contributions.
It is refreshing to see a general manager feel the urgency, if not anxiety, that we have as Chargers fans. While not every move will pay off, there is at least an attempt to do what is best for the team. And, in the right hands, low-risk signings or trades can pay dividends as it appears Kristian Fulton, Chark, and Tart will this season. It is almost painful to see just how effective a good general manager can be, particularly more so now that Justin Herbert's rookie contract is ending. Fortunately, there is a new era of Chargers football, and it feels fantastic.
