The Los Angeles Chargers are expected to be one of the more active teams ahead of the Nov. 4 NFL trade deadline, with multiple insiders confirming that general manager Joe Hortiz is exploring deals to shore up two key areas of need.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini, “The Chargers are exploring running back and offensive line depth.” The report confirms what has become increasingly evident: injuries have decimated the team’s depth in both units, forcing the front office to evaluate the trade market for immediate help.
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Running Back Reinforcements Needed
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The Chargers’ backfield has been hit particularly hard. Najee Harris is out for the season with an Achilles injury, while rookie Omarion Hampton remains on injured reserve with an ankle sprain. That’s left Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins as the lone healthy backs on the roster.
Vidal impressed last week against Miami, rushing for 124 yards and a touchdown, but the Chargers reportedly want a proven veteran to stabilize the group. League sources have linked Los Angeles to several names, including Jerome Ford of the Cleveland Browns and Breece Hall of the winless New York Jets.
Ford, who’s averaged 4.4 yards per carry in his career, could be acquired cheaply, while Hall represents a bigger swing if the Jets proceed with a fire sale. Alvin Kamara, once considered a target, took himself off the market by telling the Saints he intends to finish his career in New Orleans.
Offensive Line Remains Priority No. 1
While the running game needs help, protecting Justin Herbert remains the organization’s top concern. The Chargers rank 28th in pass-block win rate and have surrendered 18 sacks, tied for fifth-most in the league.
With Rashawn Slater out for the season and Joe Alt sidelined by a high-ankle sprain, the team has reportedly inquired about potential upgrades across the offensive line. One name floated in ESPN’s Bill Barnwell trade proposals is former first-round pick Evan Neal of the New York Giants, a low-cost flier who could offer depth at guard or tackle.
Chargers Trade Rumors: Final Stretch Push
At 4–2, the Chargers remain firmly in AFC playoff contention. Reinforcements in the trenches and backfield could prove decisive as they prepare to host the Indianapolis Colts in Week 7. As Russini reported, Los Angeles isn’t standing pat — “the Chargers are exploring running back and offensive line depth” — and all signs point to a busy few weeks before the deadline.
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