NFL 2024 Free Agency: Sanjay Lal’s Hiring Pays Instant Dividends as Jim Harbaugh Gets $14M Boost to the Offense

Head Coach Jim Harbaugh and the Los Angeles Chargers are bolstering their roster for the upcoming season. Following the strategic appointment of veteran coach Sanjay Lal, the team appears to be reaping immediate benefits. Lal, who recently held the dual role of Wide Receivers Coach and Passing Game Coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks (2022-23), has seemingly lured a familiar face from his previous stomping ground.

Reports confirm the swift acquisition of former Seahawks TE Will Dissly by the Chargers. Recently released by Seattle to create cap space, Dissly didn’t need long to find a new NFL home. 

Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers poach Seahawks tight end

The Los Angeles Chargers, under Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, have taken a different approach to free agency compared to other teams. While big names are flying off the board elsewhere, the Chargers have been strategically making calculated moves. This approach yielded its first significant result with the signing of former Seattle Seahawks tight end Will Dissly. NFL reporter Tom Pelissero confirmed the news on X. He posted, “The #Chargers are signing former #Seahawks TE Will Dissly to a three-year, $14 million deal with $10M fully guaranteed in the first two years, per source.”

Dissly is not the only tight end leaving Seattle. Another free agent, Colby Parkinson, also landed in LA, signing a bigger 3-year deal worth $22.5 million but with the Rams. That leaves the Seahawks with just Tyler Mabry and Noah Fant. But is the Chargers’ move to snag Dissly a good move?

Will Dissly become a key piece in the Chargers’ offensive puzzle?

Will Dissly isn’t the flashiest tight end in the league. But coming out of college, he was a fan favorite. Drafted by Seattle in the 4th round of 2018, he had a quick start, grabbing 8 catches for 156 yards and just 2 touchdowns in his first four games. Unfortunately, injuries plagued his first two seasons, limiting his appearances. But Dissly has been a consistent presence over the last six years, playing in 72 games for Seattle and racking up 127 catches, 1,421 yards, and 13 touchdowns. He’s always been a reliable addition to the Seahawks’ offense.

Read More: Tyler Lockett Secures Seattle Stay With $34M Contract With Seahawks

Now, Dissly heads to the Chargers, coached by Jim Harbaugh. Harbaugh’s known for wanting a balanced and strong offense, which seems like a perfect fit for Dissly. With his experience as a strong inline blocker and his ability to consistently move the chains as a possession receiver, Dissly could have a significant impact in Los Angeles. 

Read More: 5 Free Agency Targets Jim Harbaugh Can Aim to Complement the Revamped Coaching Staff for the Chargers