Chargers Need Big Dominating Tight Ends Like Travis Kelce to Help Jim Harbaugh

Jim Harbaugh’s history suggests a strong focus on utilizing tight ends.  His success with them at Michigan is well-documented, and now, he has to replicate that approach with the Los Angeles Chargers. However, the Chargers’ initial moves in free agency prioritized financial responsibility over immediate impact. While the team did sign Will Dissly, a former Seattle Seahawk, to a three-year, $14 million deal, his primary strength lies in blocking, not receiving.

This move seems like a strategic first step, but questions remain. While Dissly is a valuable addition or they need someone as dominating as Travis Kelce. Harbaugh will need to navigate this strategic crossroads and salary cap issues to build a strong blocking unit for the Chargers. 

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers lack a promising tight end

A strong offensive line remains paramount for the Los Angeles Chargers, especially with the talent of quarterback Justin Herbert. Tight ends, who line up next to the tackles on the offensive line, play a vital role in this strategy. NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky recently highlighted this point on an NFL Live panel. “I don’t think this football team looks the way coach Harbaugh wants it to” he said. Orlovsky emphasized the need for the Chargers to “reshape the roster” and prioritize adding tight ends. He further added, “This organization is going to hunt tight ends that are big, physical, dominating presences. So I think they will be fine. It just won’t look the way I expect it in the years to come”.

Building upon Dan Orlovsky’s remarks, analyst Louis Riddick also emphasized the significance of Jim Harbaugh’s offensive philosophy. His strong offensive gameplay and strategy to keep the quarterback safe have helped him win games in Michigan and San Francisco. To accomplish all this, he requires a powerful tight end like Travis Kelce.

Do Chargers need a dominating Travis Kelce?

Travis Kelce’s celebrity status soared not only after his relationship with Taylor Swift, but also following his team’s decisive victory over the Chargers. This win further cemented his dominance – with 907 career receptions and 11,328 receiving yards in 159 games, he ranks first among all tight ends in league history. Also, his towering 6’5″ frame makes him a physical marvel on the field.

Read More: “You Got a Guy Like Patrick Mahomes”: What Does Travis Kelce Think of His Performance in the Season So Far?

Opponents face not just a skilled player, but a physical marvel who casts a large shadow and disrupts their coverage. His size and athleticism allow him to make game-changing plays, making him an invaluable asset in any offensive scheme. However, the Chargers face a different reality.  While Donald Parham possesses a similar stature, he hasn’t replicated Kelce’s level of dominance. Injuries further hampered his performance against the Chiefs, highlighting the need for a more impactful tight-end presence. But their exceeding salary cap forces them to let go of key players, making the team weaker. Thus coach Harbaugh faces a tough decision – focus on money stability and risk weakening the team, or create room in the budget to get a “physically strong” tight end like Kelce, possibly improving the offense.

Read More: Despite Jim Harbaugh Facing $142M Salary Cap Hurdles, Report Hints at Chargers Coach’s Masterstroke