Four Must-Keep Chargers Free Agents Who Should Be Back in 2026
The Los Angeles Chargers enter the 2026 offseason with a roster full of difficult decisions, but four free agents stand out as essential pieces who should return. Keenan Allen remains the heartbeat of the offense, providing reliability, timing, and veteran leadership that Justin Herbert continues to lean on. Even as he ages, his route running and situational awareness keep him among the most dependable receivers in football. The Chargers lack another pass catcher with his combination of precision and trust, making his presence vital for a new offensive coordinator trying to stabilize the system. Retaining Allen also ensures continuity during a year of schematic transition. His value extends beyond production, shaping the culture of the locker room and the identity of the offense.
Khalil Mack is another veteran whose impact goes far beyond the stat sheet, giving the Chargers a stabilizing force on the edge. His leadership, physicality, and consistency helped anchor a defense that struggled with injuries and inconsistency throughout the season. Even as his career enters its later stages, Mack’s technique and football IQ allow him to remain a high-level contributor. The Chargers cannot afford to lose a player who sets the tone for the front seven and elevates those around him. With a new defensive coordinator emphasizing speed and aggression, Mack’s experience becomes even more valuable. Bringing him back ensures the defense maintains a strong foundation during a year of transition.
Da’Shawn Hand quietly became one of the Chargers’ most important rotational defenders, offering versatility and toughness along the interior. His ability to play multiple spots on the defensive line gives the coaching staff flexibility when adjusting to different offensive looks. Hand’s motor and discipline helped stabilize a unit that often struggled with gap integrity and run fits. He also brings a level of physicality that the Chargers have lacked in recent seasons, especially in short-yardage situations. Re-signing him would preserve depth at a position where the team cannot afford to regress. His presence strengthens both the run defense and the overall rotation.
Otito Ogbonnia is another interior defender the Chargers should prioritize, especially given his growth and upside. He flashed improved strength, leverage, and awareness throughout the season, showing he can become a long-term contributor in the middle of the defense. Ogbonnia’s development is particularly important as the Chargers reshape their defensive identity under new leadership. His ability to occupy blockers and create space for linebackers makes him a valuable piece in the run-stopping effort. Los Angeles has invested time in his progression, and letting him walk would create an unnecessary hole. Keeping him ensures continuity and preserves a young, ascending talent.
Odafe Oweh deserves a brief mention as a potential re-sign candidate, though he remains more uncertain than the four must-keep. His athleticism and burst are undeniable, giving the Chargers a dynamic edge presence when he is at his best. However, his inconsistency with the Baltimore Ravens raises questions about whether he can deliver steady production across a full season. The Chargers saw flashes of his potential, but they also understand the risk of relying too heavily on a player who has yet to find sustained rhythm. Oweh could be a valuable piece if the price is right, but he is not as essential as the core four. His future depends on whether the coaching staff believes they can unlock the consistency that has eluded him so far.
