3 Free Agent WRs the Chargers Can Still Sign After Failed Meeting With Former Chief

3. Michael Thomas

If the Chargers want to add a wideout who was once the best player at his position, they should look no further than Michael Thomas.

There was a time when Thomas was one of the most feared athletes on the gridiron. The ex-Ohio State Buckeye amassed 470 receptions for over 5,500 yards and 32 TDs in his first four seasons and was even named the 2019 Offensive Player of the Year after leading the league with 1,725 receiving yards.

Thomas would likely still be one of the NFL's best wideouts had the injury bug not ravaged him following his career year. He was limited to just 10 games between 2020 and 2022 due to ankle and foot injuries before a knee injury forced him to miss seven outings in 2023.

But even if Thomas is no longer a 1,000-yard receiver, he could still help the Chargers. He's a three-time Pro Bowl WR who's been in the league for nearly a decade, meaning he has a ton of knowledge that he could pass down to the likes of Quentin Johnston and Ladd McConkey.

The 2023 campaign also proved that the 31-year-old still has something left in the tank. He still amassed 39 receptions, 448 yards, and a touchdown in 10 games, putting him on pace for a 66-762-2 stat line in a 17-game schedule. Far from his best rate, but still solid numbers for someone who could be a WR3/4.

At the end of the day, Thomas' recent regression likely means that the Chargers can get him on a cheap deal, too. If it works out and he contributes to winning football games, great. If not, a one-year deal that doesn't pan out won't hurt Los Angeles in the long run.

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