The Los Angeles Chargers have taken meaningful steps to reshape their identity under head coach Jim Harbaugh, finishing his debut season with an impressive 11-6 record. Yet, one glaring weakness remains: a lack of dynamic pass-catching options for star quarterback Justin Herbert, particularly at tight end.
Yes, the Chargers drafted Oronde Gadsden II and signed veteran Tyler Conklin, but these additions, while useful, aren’t the game-changing presence Herbert needs over the middle of the field. If the Bolts are serious about maximizing their offense—and Herbert’s prime—they should make a bold move now.
That move should be trading for Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts.
The Los Angeles Chargers Need for a Real Threat at Tight End
The Chargers’ offensive weaponry was significantly depleted last offseason. Joshua Palmer left for Buffalo. Mike Williams, though brought back, didn’t look like himself in 2024. Quentin Johnston is still an unproven commodity. Outside of promising rookie Ladd McConkey, Herbert’s options are thin.
Harbaugh’s offense has always thrived with a complete tight end—think of Vernon Davis’ impact with the 49ers. The current group in Los Angeles doesn’t offer that caliber of threat. Pitts, however, absolutely could.
Why Pitts Makes Sense
Kyle Pitts, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, burst onto the scene with over 1,000 receiving yards as a rookie. Since then, inconsistent quarterback play and offensive shifts in Atlanta have muted his production—but not his potential.
In 2024, Pitts quietly turned in a respectable line: 47 receptions, 602 yards, and 4 touchdowns—all while working in a run-heavy system and catching passes from multiple quarterbacks. He’s still just 24 years old, stands 6-foot-6, and offers elite-level athleticism. In a better environment, he could easily return to form.
Put him in a system led by Justin Herbert, and the sky is the limit.
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Chargers Trade Rumors: The Cost Is Manageable, the Upside Is Massive
Pitts is heading into the final year of his rookie deal, earning a very reasonable $10.88 million. That makes him a low-risk, high-upside trade target.
Atlanta has reportedly soured on Pitts and could be willing to move him for modest draft compensation. According to ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, the tight end’s current value could be equivalent to a late second- or early third-round pick. For the Chargers, who have cap flexibility and a roster that’s ready to compete, that’s a bargain.
Worst-case scenario? Pitts walks in free agency next year. Best case? You acquire an elite tight end at a discount price and solidify a lethal passing game.
Why It Works for Harbaugh’s Vision
Harbaugh wants to play physical, efficient football, and that starts with giving Herbert reliable intermediate and red zone targets. Pitts would thrive in two-tight end sets alongside Conklin, while opening up the middle of the field for McConkey and Gadsden on the outside.
Moreover, acquiring a player like Pitts reinforces a championship mentality in Los Angeles—one where you don’t settle for roster holes when a high-upside solution is clearly available.
Final Thought
The Chargers don’t need to wait and see if Oronde Gadsden II turns into a star. They don’t need to hope Conklin becomes more than he’s ever been. They need a real answer at tight end—and Kyle Pitts is that answer.
With cap space, a win-now roster, and a franchise quarterback in place, the Bolts should strike while the opportunity exists. If Los Angeles is serious about contending in 2025 and beyond, a Kyle Pitts trade isn’t just worth exploring—it’s the right move to make.