The Los Angeles Chargers began free agency by acquiring tight end Charlie Kolar from the Baltimore Ravens on a three-year contract worth $24.3 million on Monday afternoon. The Chargers invested heavily in Kolar, known primarily as the top blocking tight end available this offseason, aimed at strengthening their offensive line support rather than adding a primary receiving weapon.
Kolar’s skill set aligns with new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s strategy, potentially increasing the use of 12 personnel formations where Kolar functions almost as an additional blocker. Although he is not expected to be a frequent target of quarterback Justin Herbert, Kolar’s receiving ability remains valuable in broken plays or surprise passing opportunities.
Kolar’s Receiving Ability Adds Unexpected Value to Chargers’ Offense
Despite being recognized chiefly for his blocking prowess, Kolar demonstrated solid receiving skills in the past season. He recorded 10 receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns, showing reliable hands with only three drops out of 41 targets since entering the NFL as a 2022 fourth-round draft pick. Defenses likely will not prioritize covering him, giving Kolar chances to capitalize when the pass game breaks down.
This signing complements the Chargers’ current receiving tight end, Oronde Gadsden II, who continues to be the primary target. Instead of detracting from Gadsden’s role, Kolar’s presence enhances the tight end group’s versatility and strength in both blocking and receiving facets.
Chargers’ Tight End Roster Remains Sparse Despite New Addition
Following Kolar’s addition, the Chargers now have two tight ends signed for the upcoming season. Once Kolar’s deal officially begins Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, Gadsden will maintain the lead tight end position, with Kolar directly behind him on the depth chart.
The team’s recent experience with veteran Tyler Conklin, a free agent, was disappointing. Conklin managed only seven catches for 101 yards across 13 games and five starts before being benched in favor of Gadsden. Given that performance, it is unlikely the Chargers will bring Conklin back.
Restricted free agent Tucker Fisk remains in the mix, as the Chargers are expected to extend a qualifying offer. Such an offer allows Fisk to negotiate with other teams, but those teams risk losing draft picks if they match the offer, making Fisk’s return to the Chargers the most probable outcome.
Improved Tight End Room Signals Progress for Chargers’ Offensive Depth
With Gadsden and Kolar as the main tight ends, the Chargers have strengthened a position group that was far thinner in recent years. The addition of Kolar, known for his blocking but capable in receiving, gives the team a more balanced and resilient tight end room. This should support both the run and pass game, easing pressure on Herbert and fitting well into McDaniel’s offensive schemes as the Chargers aim to improve their overall offensive efficiency.
The Chargers are signing TE Charlie Kolar to a three-year $24.3 million contract that makes him the NFL’s highest-paid blocking tight end, sources tell The Insiders. @SteveCaric of @WassermanNFL negotiated the deal, which includes $17M guaranteed. pic.twitter.com/4Hoi76juRq
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 9, 2026
