Chargers' top WR options after missing Davante Adams, DK Metcalf

Chargers’ Top WR Options After Missing Davante Adams and DK Metcalf: Who’s Next for Los Angeles?

The Los Angeles Chargers have found themselves at a crossroads in their quest to build a Super Bowl-contending roster. With a dynamic offense led by Justin Herbert, the team is well-equipped on the offensive side of the ball — but they’ve been in search of a top-tier wide receiver (WR) to help take the next step. This offseason, the Chargers missed out on two marquee targets in the wide receiver market: Davante Adams and DK Metcalf. Both stars, once considered potential additions to the Chargers’ offense, have moved on to other teams, leaving Los Angeles to reassess its WR options for the future.

With Herbert's incredible arm and ability to spread the ball across the field, adding a reliable and explosive wideout could be the key to unlocking the full potential of the offense. So, who should the Chargers target next? Let’s explore their top wide receiver options and the strategic moves they can make to strengthen the passing game.

The Missed Opportunities: Davante Adams and DK Metcalf

Before diving into the Chargers' current wide receiver options, it’s essential to take a brief look at why Davante Adams and DK Metcalf were so highly sought after by the team.

Davante Adams, widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL, was considered the top free-agent option for any team looking to elevate its passing attack. With his unmatched route running, elite hands, and consistency as one of the most dominant forces in the game, Adams was the perfect fit for a team with a quarterback like Justin Herbert. However, Adams eventually made a move to the Las Vegas Raiders, reuniting with his former college quarterback Derek Carr and joining an offense already stacked with talent.

Similarly, DK Metcalf had long been linked to potential trade rumors and was considered one of the rising stars in the league. With his size, speed, and physicality, Metcalf would have been an excellent complement to the Chargers’ offense. However, the Seattle Seahawks decided to hold onto their young superstar, securing Metcalf with a new contract extension.

Both Adams and Metcalf were seen as transformative additions to the Chargers' receiving corps. Missing out on these two playmakers leaves the team in need of another option to bolster their passing attack. But all hope is not lost — there are still several viable wide receiver targets that could make an immediate impact in Los Angeles.

The Chargers’ Current WR Depth Chart

Before exploring potential targets, let’s first assess the current state of the Chargers' wide receiver depth chart. At the top of the list is Keenan Allen, one of the most reliable and consistent receivers in the NFL. Known for his route-running precision and exceptional hands, Allen remains the clear No. 1 option in the passing game. His chemistry with Justin Herbert is undeniable, and he continues to be a top performer year after year.

Behind Allen, the Chargers have Mike Williams, a towering deep threat who can stretch the field and make contested catches. Williams is a physical specimen, standing at 6’4” with remarkable leaping ability, making him a dangerous target in the red zone and deep down the field. His ability to create mismatches on the outside makes him an ideal complement to Allen’s precision.

However, beyond these two veterans, the Chargers’ wide receiver depth is somewhat thin. Joshua Palmer showed promise during his rookie season but is still developing into a reliable option. The team could use an additional weapon to give Herbert more flexibility and ensure that opposing defenses cannot focus solely on Allen and Williams.

Top WR Options for the Chargers in 2025

Even though the Chargers missed out on Adams and Metcalf, there are still several ways they can address their wide receiver need. Whether through trade, free agency, or the draft, the Chargers have the opportunity to add a key piece to their offense. Below are some top wide receiver options to consider:

1. Tee Higgins (Cincinnati Bengals) - Trade Target

One of the most intriguing potential trade targets for the Chargers is Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals. Higgins has emerged as one of the most promising young receivers in the league, showcasing his ability to win in contested situations, stretch the field, and make plays after the catch. With the Bengals already possessing a deep receiving corps featuring Ja’Marr Chase and Tyler Boyd, there are rumors that they may be willing to move Higgins if the right offer comes along.

Adding a player like Higgins would immediately elevate the Chargers’ receiving group, giving Herbert a dynamic weapon on the outside. Higgins is still on his rookie contract and could be the long-term solution at wide receiver opposite Keenan Allen. Given his size (6’4”) and athleticism, Higgins would be an excellent complement to Williams, adding another vertical threat to the offense.

2. DeAndre Hopkins (Arizona Cardinals) - Trade or Free Agent Option

Another big-name wide receiver who could be on the market is DeAndre Hopkins, the All-Pro wideout currently with the Arizona Cardinals. Although Hopkins is in the latter stages of his career, he is still widely regarded as one of the best wide receivers in the NFL. With his elite ball skills, hands, and ability to make acrobatic catches, Hopkins could immediately provide Herbert with a No. 1 option in the passing game.

The only question surrounding Hopkins is whether the Chargers would be willing to trade for him or sign him in free agency, as his contract could be a factor in such a decision. However, if the Chargers are looking to compete for a Super Bowl now, adding Hopkins could be a game-changer.

3. Jahmyr Gibbs (Draft Prospect) - 2025 NFL Draft

If the Chargers decide to look toward the future, Jahmyr Gibbs, a dynamic wide receiver prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft, could be a strong option. Gibbs, who has shown elite speed and route-running ability in college, is expected to be one of the top wideouts available in the draft. His ability to create separation with his agility and quickness would fit perfectly into the Chargers’ fast-paced offense.

Drafting Gibbs would provide a long-term solution at the position and give Herbert another explosive weapon to work with. The Chargers could target him if they decide to add a younger player to complement Allen and Williams for years to come.

4. Odell Beckham Jr. (Free Agency) - Veteran Option

While it’s unclear where Odell Beckham Jr. will end up following his return to the NFL, the Chargers could explore signing him if he’s available. Beckham is a proven playmaker and can still be a difference-maker in the right situation. Although his last few seasons have been marred by injuries, OBJ showed during his time with the Los Angeles Rams that he still has the ability to make spectacular catches and change the game in critical moments.

Beckham’s experience and explosive ability would make him a solid addition to the Chargers' offense. His rapport with Herbert would take time to develop, but with his unique skill set, Beckham could make an immediate impact.

5. Jerry Jeudy (Denver Broncos) - Trade Target

Finally, Jerry Jeudy of the Denver Broncos could be another trade target worth pursuing. Jeudy, known for his route running and separation ability, has the potential to be a No. 1 receiver in the right system. The Broncos’ offense has struggled in recent years, and there have been whispers that the team might be open to moving Jeudy for the right price. If the Chargers could acquire Jeudy, he could fit seamlessly into their offense, providing another excellent option for Justin Herbert to work with.

Conclusion

Although the Los Angeles Chargers missed out on Davante Adams and DK Metcalf, they still have plenty of options to strengthen their wide receiver corps. Whether through trade, free agency, or the draft, the Chargers can look to add a dynamic weapon that complements Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Players like Tee Higgins, DeAndre Hopkins, Jahmyr Gibbs, Odell Beckham Jr., and Jerry Jeudy could be the key to unlocking the full potential of the Chargers’ high-powered offense.

As the offseason continues, the Chargers are in a strong position to make moves and build a championship-caliber team around their young quarterback, Justin Herbert. With the right additions at wide receiver, the Chargers could be poised for a deep playoff run — and perhaps even their first Super Bowl appearance in over two decades. The time is now for the Chargers to make a move, and the right wide receiver addition could make all the difference.