The Los Angeles Chargers could soon find themselves in the market for veteran wide receiver help after an intriguing name hit free agency today.
Former New York Jets wideout Allen Lazard was released on Tuesday.
While Lazard’s time in New York never quite lived up to expectations, his availability comes at a moment when the Chargers may need experienced depth.
As Sports Illustrated noted, Quentin Johnston, who is dealing with a lingering groin injury, missed Sunday’s game against the Chiefs.
His outlook is still uncertain going forward.
Johnston missed last week’s game after the injury surfaced late on the injury report.
While there’s optimism he could return soon, the timing is less than ideal.
The Chargers are fighting for playoff positioning, and with a tougher slate of defenses coming up, adding a steady veteran receiver could help.
Bringing in a player with real postseason experience would be a logical move at this stage of the season.
Why Allen Lazard Is Suddenly Available
Lazard’s release from the Jets marked the end of a disappointing chapter.
It was a chapter that never fully stabilized after Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles injury derailed New York’s plans in 2023.
He originally signed a four-year, $44 million deal before that season because of his past experience and great connection with Rodgers.
Lazard ultimately totaled 70 receptions for 911 yards and eight touchdowns across 36 games with the Jets.
This season, Lazard was barely used.
He caught 10 passes for 70 yards and one touchdown in 10 appearances.
He played fewer than 30 percent of the offensive snaps in each of his last three games and was a healthy scratch in Weeks 10 and 11.
Still, he’s only one year removed from a 530-yard, six-touchdown campaign.
And his resume includes meaningful snaps in high-leverage games.
At 6-foot-5, Lazard brings size, experience, and functional speed on the outside.
While he wouldn’t be expected to step in as a featured target, his profile fits a role that is meaningful in the postseason.
Quentin Johnston’s Injury Makes the Fit Logical
Johnston’s importance to the Chargers’ offense is big.
The former first-round pick leads the team with seven receiving touchdowns and has emerged as Justin Herbert’s top downfield threat.
He opens up the entire offense as the defense has to respect his downfield ability.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh has acknowledged the balancing act of wanting Johnston back on the field while also being mindful of long-term health.
The Chargers have matchups against the Texans and Broncos in the last two weeks of the season.
Those are two of the best defenses in the NFL so a big challenge awaits.
If Johnston is limited or misses additional time, the Chargers current receiving depth leans heavily on younger, inexperienced options.
Ladd has only played in one career playoff game and Tre Harris, Keandre Lambert-Smith and Ororonde Gadsden II have never been in one.
That’s where Lazard makes sense.
With an injured and struggling offensive line, Herbert could benefit from a possession receiver.
Lazard is a guy who understands spacing and can work through contact on shorter routes.
His ability to block, win contested catches, and serve as a reliable outlet could stabilize the offense in big time moments.
For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, adding a veteran receiver now may be a huge move that could pay off on the biggest stage.
Chargers Urged to Target Veteran Free-Agent Wide Receiver Amid Injury Concerns