Despite holding a 5-3 record and securing the second Wild Card spot in the AFC, the LA Chargers chose not to make any moves at this week’s trade deadline. This decision wasn’t due to a lack of interest or effort, though.
The Chargers were reportedly one of the final contenders for New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore, who ultimately was traded to the Washington Commanders. With Asante Samuel Jr. still recovering from a shoulder injury, Lattimore would have been an ideal addition to a secondary that’s already been bolstered by solid play from Elijah Molden, Tarheeb Still, and Kristian Fulton.
**READ MORE: Chargers all but confirm Asante Samuel Jr.’s fate with failed deadline pursuit**
While acquiring Lattimore would have been a savvy move, many Chargers fans were hoping for a wide receiver addition to help Justin Herbert, who has been playing at an exceptionally high level.
Although LA remained quiet on deadline day, they did reportedly explore a deal for Patriots wideout K.J. Osborn, according to the *Boston Sports Journal*. Osborn could have provided depth as the Bolts’ WR4, but both head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz were right to avoid pulling the trigger on this one.
Why the Chargers Were Right to Pass on K.J. Osborn
Osborn, frustrated with his role in New England’s offense, made waves last week by sharing a text message screenshot from his agent, Brandon Abdala, on Instagram. The message essentially praised Osborn for handling a tough situation with grace.
However, the Patriots weren’t entirely innocent in this scenario. They reportedly informed Osborn on Wednesday that he would be inactive for the Week 8 game against the Jaguars, only to change their minds the night before and tell him he’d be playing.
While Osborn claimed he posted the message for motivation rather than to stir up frustration or force a trade, the move didn’t reflect well on him. His frustration is understandable, but the public nature of the post put head coach Jerod Mayo in an awkward position.
Other young Patriots receivers, like DeMario Douglas and Ja’Lynn Polk, have also voiced dissatisfaction with their lack of opportunities, adding further tension to the situation. As a veteran, Osborn should have been setting an example, not fueling discord—though his frustration certainly doesn’t make him a bad teammate. Still, posting a cryptic text from an agent on social media doesn’t help anyone.
While Osborn likely would have welcomed a move out of New England, the Chargers’ decision to stay away from this potentially messy situation was the right call. The team’s culture is in a good place right now, and there will be future opportunities to give Herbert more help at wide receiver.
