The Los Angeles Chargers are less than three weeks away from the opening of training camp ahead of the 2024 season, but several alterations to the roster will still be made before the season kicks off.
The Chargers have a new head coach and a solid group of core players, but a couple of positions could still have more depth added. Looking at each side of the ball, another veteran presence at wide receiver and cornerback wouldn't hurt.
The list of good, available free agents is not look and players who are still on the market and have yet to be signed have not been offered a contract for a reason. The Chargers will also want to take a look at what they have in training camp and perhaps even some preseason games before considering a move to bring in another outside source.
But if the Chargers consider looking outside the organization, there are a couple of guys who could make some sense for them to sign.
Los Angeles Chargers should consider Stephon Gilmore, Michael Thomas
Stephon Gilmore, Cornerback
Stephon Gilmore is 33 years old and has played for a different team in each of the past three seasons, most recently with the Dallas Cowboys. But the former first-round pick has had a terrific career, including being named to the Pro Bowl five times, a First Team All-Pro twice and he was the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.
There is no doubt that Gilmore's best days are behind him and he's probably lost a step. But he is still tough in coverage and can provide the kind of experience a young secondary is looking for.
STEPHON GILMORE SEALS THE WIN WITH A PICK#DALvsLAC pic.twitter.com/32L5CtBPde
— NFL (@NFL) October 17, 2023
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In many ways, he's a better signing than Kristian Fulton, who the team signed in March. Fulton is eight years younger but Gilmore's experience and proven ability still gives him the edge.
Michael Thomas, Wide Receiver
A good portion of analysts out there feel the Chargers have not done enough to address the wide receiver position this offseason after losing Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
The team is ready to move forward with Josh Palmer, Quentin Johnston, D.J. Chark, and several rookies.
Michael Thomas has had a hard time staying on the field in recent years and most teams will likely look right past his name as being available. But if he can even be close to what he used to be, he could be a steady target for Justin Herbert and worth a potential look.
