The Los Angeles Chargers have spent years asking Justin Herbert to create a difficult offense. One of the best QBs in the NFL should have all the firepower around him that he needs to succeed, and Deebo Samuel could give him some of that. Samuel remains one of the most recognizable offensive weapons available, and the Chargers are one of the cleanest possible fits. NFL.com has already identified Los Angeles as a logical destination, pairing Samuel with Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and an offense now coordinated by Mike McDaniel. That last name matters.

MORE: Ranking all 16 AFC teams heading into 2026 NFL training camp

McDaniel was part of San Francisco’s offensive staff during Samuel’s greatest season. In 2021, Samuel produced career highs in receptions and receiving yards while also becoming a devastating rushing threat. The Chargers should not expect that exact version of him now, but they do not need to. What they need is versatility.

Herbert has the arm to attack every area of the field, yet the offense has too often depended on him completing difficult throws or extending plays under pressure. Samuel would create manufactured touches: screens, motion, short crossers, backfield carries and quick throws that become dangerous after the catch. That is how Los Angeles can make Herbert’s job easier without taking away his aggressiveness.

Yes, there is risk. Samuel’s recent availability and consistency have been concerns, and any contract should reflect that. But a reduced role may actually help. The Chargers would not need him to lead the team in targets. McConkey can remain the primary receiver while Samuel becomes the matchup piece that defenses must locate before every snap.

Los Angeles also has enough offensive structure to avoid forcing the move. That should help the Chargers negotiate a short-term deal rather than overpay based on name recognition. The AFC is too crowded for safe roster building. If the Chargers believe Herbert can take them deep into January, they should give him a weapon capable of changing a game without needing 12 targets.

Samuel is no longer a perfect player. He may still be the perfect gamble for Los Angeles.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —