The Los Angeles Chargers have been a busy team following Tuesday’s deadline to cut their roster to 53 players. The new management, led by general manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh, has decided to be active, making two big trades and acquiring another player off waivers.
In a single trade, the Chargers acquired Tennessee Titans cornerback Elijah Molden before acquiring quarterback Taylor Heinicke later in the day. Harbaugh also acquired one of his former Michigan players, running back Hassan Haskins, who was placed on waivers.
But to integrate these players into the active squad, the team had to part ways with three players who had initially made it.
Los Angeles Chargers release veteran Tony Jefferson
Despite a terrific preseason that included an incredible finale against Dallas, the Chargers have moved on from Tony Jefferson and his return after retiring before last season. It appears the team already has a plan to get him back on their practice squad, so he could still play in the regular season this year.
JT Woods
Jefferson wasn’t the only safety the team got rid of. JT Woods, who was also used at cornerback this preseason, was liftedThe former third-round pick has only spent two seasons with the team. The team has just four safeties on the roster, Derwin James, Alohi Gilman, Molden and AJ Finley.
Jaret Patterson
A surprise this preseason, Jaret Patterson beat out Isaiah Spiller for a roster spot but was rendered expendable when the team claimed Haskins. He’s a candidate to end up on the practice squad.
Overall, it was a crazy couple of days for this Chargers team, who are doing things differently than in years past, much to the delight of the fans. Take a look at this statistic:
Joe Hortiz has made more talent acquisition trades today (2) than he did before #Chargers General manager Tom Telesco has had to acquire preseason/regular season talent during his 11-year tenure (1).
This is a new era. pic.twitter.com/R5yNgcMOVG
— Jason Reed (@EatYourReedies) August 29, 2024
This is encouraging. The Chargers filled holes and found players they wanted at nearly every position this offseason. The practice squad is also loaded with contributors. We’re a week away from the start of the 2024 NFL season and this team looks ready.
