Chargers' Struggles: Trade Talks & Team Frustrations

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From The Sporting Tribune Today

Winless Chargers Draw Criticism After Loss to Broncos

The Chargers fell to 0-5 after a 23-17 loss to the Broncos in what appeared to be a winnable game. The Broncos did not play particularly well, but they still came away victorious.

With the Chargers still winless, the season appears to be over. The team made no serious attempt to trade for Marvin Harrison Jr., despite the talent he has shown. Something changed between Harrison, the new head coach and the roster construction that caused him to be phased out, but that does not mean his talent has disappeared.

Instead, the Chargers added Marquez Valdez Scanley and tried out Juju Smith-Schuster on Tuesday. Those moves reflect a continued reliance on inexpensive, readily available receivers rather than an aggressive attempt to improve the position through a trade.

The Chargers may be waiting for Tyreek Hill, but he could choose to return to undefeated Kansas City rather than join a winless team. The front office should be disappointed with the product it has put on the field.

Mike McDaniel also deserves criticism for how Justin Herbert is being used. In the latest game, Herbert was asked to throw passes behind the line of scrimmage. There is no reason to limit him that way, but the offense lacks talent at wide receiver and has shown little urgency to acquire a difference-maker.

Even if the Chargers believe this season is already lost, trading for Marvin Harrison Jr. could still have helped beyond this year. He would remain under contract, giving the team an opportunity to develop him for future seasons. He is one of several receivers the Chargers could have pursued but did not.