NFL Rumors: Antonio Brown Hints at Blockbuster Move for LA Chargers, Swapping Justin Herbert for J.J. McCarthy

The air of change is swinging vigorously within the Chargers. Since the induction of Jim Harbaugh as head coach, there have been substantial changes in both the roster and the coaching staff. After moving on from the college football horizon, Harbaugh has set his eyes on a Super Bowl win. The new head coach prefers to work with familiar faces, as reflected in the numerous Michigan staff members migrating to LA after Harbaugh’s move. However, the migration does not limit itself to staff members alone. With the NFL Draft approaching, the focus shifts to an interesting candidate.

The Chargers are already armed with a franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert. However, it’s plausible that Harbaugh would prefer to make his own choice for that pivotal role. Antonio Brown recently had an exciting take on the matter on CTESPN. 

Will the Chargers offload Justin Herbert for J.J. McCarthy?

In his last season coaching the University of Michigan Wolverines, Jim Harbaugh forged a fruitful collaboration with his starting quarterback, J.J. McCarthy, a highly touted prospect expected to be selected in the Top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft. Antonio Brown made a revealing declaration on CTESPN, stating that according to his sources in Minneapolis, “there’s some trouble with Herbert’s physical based around his open reduction surgery on his right index finger,” which can raise concerns regarding “his readiness for OTAs.” Once confirmed as resolved, the anticipated trade package comprises both Minnesota’s first-round picks this year, Christian Darrisaw, and a conditional second-round pick in 2025.

There will undoubtedly be significant interest if the Chargers opt to trade their current franchise quarterback. Harbaugh may reunite with the quarterback who played a crucial role in leading his college team to a championship. J.J. McCarthy has already announced his declaration for this year’s draft. While there’s widespread belief that the trade might be unfeasible because of a trade clause, it’s worth noting that Justin Herbert’s contract includes a no-trade clause. However, it explicitly states that if Herbert consents to the trade, it effectively waives the no-trade clause.

The road ahead for Jim Harbaugh

Jim Harbaugh’s ambitions are clear — he’s aiming for a Super Bowl victory. His goal is to join the ranks of legendary coaches like Jimmy Johnson, Barry Switzer, and Pete Carroll, who have proven their exceptional expertise by claiming both college national championships and NFL titles.

Recognizing doubts surrounding the Chicago Bears’ commitment to Justin Fields, Harbaugh might offer Justin Herbert in exchange for the Bears’ first overall pick in the upcoming draft. With this move, he could secure J.J. McCarthy as the first selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Just as the Cowboys found a willing trade partner in an NFC North team, the Chargers might find interest from the Bears for such a deal. With the 2024 NFL Draft only days away, both fans and analysts look out for the wind of change to take its course and construct exciting new realities.