Charlie Kolar, former Iowa State Cyclone and Baltimore Raven, has agreed to a contract with the Los Angeles Chargers in free agency. The tight end, known for his strong blocking skills, finalized a three-year deal reportedly worth $24.3 million.
Impressive Collegiate Records and NFL Background
Kolar, 27, set nearly every tight end record at Iowa State between 2018 and 2021 and remains among the program’s top 10 in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns. He was selected in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by Baltimore, where he developed into one of the league’s most reliable run blockers at his position.
Details of the New Contract and Role in Los Angeles
According to NFL Insider Tom Pelissero, the contract includes $17 million guaranteed and averages $8.1 million annually, placing Kolar just inside the top 20 highest-paid tight ends in the league by 2026. In Los Angeles, Kolar will team with fellow tight end Oronde Gadsden, who had a breakout rookie season with 664 receiving yards.
Kolar’s Versatility to Support Chargers’ Offense
Primarily a receiving target during his college career, Kolar has demonstrated versatility by becoming an effective run blocker in the NFL. The Chargers aim to utilize his physical traits and blocking prowess to complement quarterback Justin Herbert’s passing attack. Last season, Kolar posted career highs with 10 receptions, 142 yards, and two touchdowns.
Connections to Iowa and Other Player Moves West
Kolar’s former Ravens teammate, Iowa native and center Tyler Linderbaum, also moved west in free agency but signed with the Chargers’ AFC West rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders. Both players share ties to Midwest college football, with Kolar at Iowa State and Linderbaum at Iowa.
Chargers signing TE Charlie Kolar to a three-year, $24.3M contract with $17M guaranteed. (via @Rapsheet, @TomPelissero, @MikeGarafolo) pic.twitter.com/KtfjQlDhUQ
— NFL (@NFL) March 9, 2026
