The Los Angeles Chargers offseason has officially kicked off. While they and their fans would much rather be focused on beating the next playoff opponent, they must start to focus on the 2025 season. LA will have a lot to work to prioritize who they want among the soon-to-be free agents that now populate the Chargers depth chart.
But there are a few that the Chargers cannot afford to walk once free agency kicks off in less than two months.
NFL’s free agency period officially opens on March 12 at 1 pm PST.
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Chargers Free Agents They Must Re-Sign
Elijah Molden, S
This one may come as a surprise to some, but Elijah Molden unlocked the secondary in several ways. The Chargers traded for Molden shortly before the season after the team sustained several injuries to defensive backs. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter said the move was to ensure both quality and quantity at the position. Molden quickly distinguished himself as a starter in Week 2 when Alohi Gilman was injured.
Molden provides another versatile DB to play alongside Derwin James, which multiplies James’ effectiveness. The Chargers have to do what they can to maximize their defensive stars, as they won’t likely re-sign Khalil Mack along with big questions about Joey Bosa’s availability and longevity.
Poona Ford, DL

Poona Ford stepped up into a new echelon under Minter and Jim Harbaugh. He had his best year as a run defender, and one of his best years as a pass rusher, and was one of the defensive line’s most sound tacklers.
While the team will have to spend a lot of money attempting to rebuild the pass rush, having a stalwart defensive lineman, especially a moderately priced one, will go a long way in creating a playoff contender.
Asante Samuel Jr., CB
Asante Samuel Jr. was off to a quality start this year, the final of his rookie contract, before missing the majority of the season with a nagging shoulder injury.
A glance at the Chargers free agent list reveals the pickle they are in in the secondary. With many holes to fill they will be looking for good corners on a budget to reconstruct the team. And that is what Samuel is, especially after missing a good chunk of the year.
They will need to add more to the CB room, but Samuel will be a good inexpensive piece to build around.