NFL free agency is getting underway this week and the Los Angeles Chargers are one of the most fascinating teams to watch. They have the second-most projected cap space, north of $90 million, and hope to build a sustainable foundation after an impressive turnaround in Jim Harbaugh's first year as head coach.
One of the roster's biggest needs is at wide receiver. Ladd McConkey looks like a rising star, but Quentin Johnston hasn't panned out and there's little depth otherwise. In order to compete with the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West, Los Angeles needs to give Justin Herbert more weapons.
Fortunately for the Chargers, star wideout DK Metcalf is available. He's seemingly angling for a trade to the team and one new report suggests Los Angeles may be one step closer to acquiring him.
The Seahawks’ asking price for WR DK Metcalf has lowered, per sources.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 9, 2025
Seattle would be open to a return centered around a second-round pick for the two-time Pro Bowl receiver.
Metcalf ideally wants to play in a warm weather climate and is looking to make $30m per year. pic.twitter.com/NOADzeSB52
Seahawks Lower Asking Price for WR DK Metcalf
According to Dianna Russini of The Athletic, Seattle is open to a return centered around a second-round pick for Metcalf. Their previous asking price was a first and third-rounder, so dropping the demand to a second represents a massive shift indicative of the Seahawks' desire to get a deal done quickly.
Russini also noted that Metcalf prefers to play in warm weather and make $30 million annually. Well, Los Angeles happens to be quite warm and the Chargers have a ton of cap space. This is a match made in heaven, particularly considering how impactful Metcalf could be on this offense.
The former All-Pro has at least 900 receiving yards in all six of his seasons, eclipsing 1,000 yards three times. He's been remarkably durable, playing in at least 16 games in five of those campaigns. As Harbaugh establishes a team identity, Metcalf is the exact kind of receiver who could take Herbert's production to the next level.
Whether it was Tyreek Hill with Patrick Mahomes, Stefon Diggs with Josh Allen, or A.J. Brown with Jalen Hurts, we've seen numerous examples of quarterbacks benefitting from having a true No. 1 option. Metcalf can be that and help the Chargers take the next step.
Los Angeles has a lot of draft capital too. Their second-round selection is at the back end of the round (No. 55), but the Chargers also have two fifth-rounders, three sixths, and two sevenths. Any of those could be added as a sweetener, helping make the deal more palatable for Seattle.
At this point, it would be a surprise if Metcalf didn't land in Los Angeles. Here's hoping the front office can seal the deal.