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Chargers Stud Publicly Recruits Former Star Back to L.A.

By Chris Schad

Dec 28, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) and safety Derwin James Jr. (3) run off the field after defeating the New England Patriots in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Dec 28, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) and safety Derwin James Jr. (3) run off the field after defeating the New England Patriots in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images / David Butler II-Imagn Images
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Keenan Allen was a staple of the Los Angeles Chargers since he was selected in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft. But last season got a little weird for fans as he was traded to the Chicago Bears during the offseason.

Allen’s first year in Chicago didn’t go as planned as the Bears slumped to a 5-12 record while the Chargers returned to the playoffs under Jim Harbaugh. While it may have taken some time to get used to seeing him in a different jersey, it was a similar situation for his former teammates. 

With the 32-year-old entering free agency this spring, one former teammate has already vouched for his return and it could help Allen reunite with the Chargers next season.

Derwin James Publicly Lobbies for Keenan Allen’s Return to Chargers

The campaign to bring Allen back to Los Angeles started with a post by Derwin James on his Instagram account. The post to celebrate his fourth Pro Bowl appearance led to a comment by Allen before a fan replied “Come back to the Chargers next season please.”

James jumped in and responded to the fan, telling Allen to “Bring yo a** back too.”

Allen already has a strong legacy with the Chargers. After 10 seasons with the team, Allen ranks second in franchise history with 904 receptions and 10,530 receiving yards and ranks third with 59 receiving touchdowns. When it comes to pass-catchers, only Antonio Gates has more receptions (955) and receiving yards (11,841) while Gates (116) and Lance Alworth have more (81) receiving touchdowns.

While it may seem Allen’s book is closed, it could open up in free agency. Allen was traded in part due to the $23.1 million cap hit due in the final year of a four-year, $80.1 million contract extension but has a contract valuation of $11.1 million per season according to Spotrac.

The Chargers found a cheaper alternative in Ladd McConkey, though they could be looking for a reliable target to tie everything together. Quentin Johnston had his best statistical season with 55 catches for 711 yards and eight touchdowns, yet addehad six drops on 93 targets. Josh Palmer also couldn’t seize an expanded role with 39 catches for 584 yards and a touchdown.

After a disappointing loss to the Houston Texans in the wild card round, the Chargers will be looking to take the next step in 2025. It just remains to be seen if a former face will be around to help them get there.

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