Analyst reveals Chargers might have got $24 million star in free agency

Jan 8, 2023; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar (88) runs with the ball against Cincinnati Bengals safety Dax Hill (23) in the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers' offense is going to have a vastly different feel to it in 2026 as Mike McDaniel takes over as offensive coordinator.

We have seen L.A. be a run-heavy offense for the past couple of seasons, but now with McDaniel in charge, the passing game with Justin Herbert is expected to explode.

And in free agency, the Chargers signed Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar to a three-year, $24 million deal.

Having not excelled in Baltimore, as he was behind Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely, Kolar has shown his potential. And NFL.com's Bucky Brooks thinks that Kolar could be an absolute bargain in 2026.

"Do not let the fourth-year pro’s modest career stat line (30 receptions, 409 yards, four touchdowns) overshadow his potential to blossom into a star in new coordinator Mike McDaniel’s dynamic offense," Brooks wrote.

"Kolar could play a pivotal role in McDaniel's effort to improve a middle-of-the-pack offense (12th overall, 20th in scoring) and build an explosive attack around Justin Herbert."

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Kolar set to explode in 2026?

Well, explode might be a touch strong, and with Oronde Gadsden exploding last season, Kolar could find himself seeing his snaps limited.

But the Chargers didn't sign him to a $24 million deal to be a bit-part player. They clearly have a plan for him.

As a receiver, he can get downfield in a hurry and is also a willing blocker, as the Chargers are still expected to be a run-heavy offense.

But who knows, in 2026, Kolar, after finally emerging from Andrews and Likely's shadow, could do some good things for the Chargers and McDaniel.

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