Trade Proposal Gains Momentum

The Los Angeles Chargers are reportedly exploring a trade to acquire Baltimore Ravens All-Pro tight end Mark Andrews, according to recent NFL insider speculation. This potential move would address a critical need for the Chargers while offering the Ravens financial flexibility amid shifting roster dynamics.

Deal Structure

Under the proposed scenario, the Chargers would send a mid-round draft pick (likely a fourth-round selection) to Baltimore in exchange for Andrews, who is entering the final year of his contract. With the Ravens' emerging tight end duo of Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar showing promise, Baltimore could save approximately $10 million in cap space before Andrews' potential free agency in 2026.

Why Andrews Makes Sense for LA

The seven-year veteran remains a dominant force despite a slight production dip in 2024, recording 673 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns while maintaining an 83.6 Pro Football Focus grade. His existing chemistry with Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman - his former coach in Baltimore - could prove invaluable.

Upgrade at Tight End

Los Angeles' current tight end group, led by Will Dissly and rookie Orande Gadsden II, lacks the explosive playmaking ability Andrews brings. His arrival would provide quarterback Justin Herbert with a proven red-zone threat and intermediate route-runner.

Baltimore's Calculated Gamble

While Ravens GM Eric DeCosta recently stated he expects Andrews to stay, the organization's youth movement and financial strategy suggest otherwise. Likely's emergence as a dual-threat weapon (600 yards, 7 TDs in 2024) makes this potential trade timeline plausible.

Cap Space Allocation

Moving Andrews would allow Baltimore to focus resources on extending franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson while addressing critical needs along the offensive line and defensive depth chart.

Potential Ripple Effects

For the Chargers, adding Andrews could:

• Reduce Herbert's turnover tendencies in clutch situations
• Create mismatches for receivers Keenan Allen (if re-signed) and rookies Tre Harris/Ladd McConkey
• Install a true safety valve in Jim Harbaugh's offensive system

The Ravens would gain:

• Financial flexibility to retain core players
• Opportunity to develop their young TE duo
• Draft capital for future roster building

Negotiation Landscape

With $76 million in projected cap space, the Chargers have resources to absorb Andrews' contract. Baltimore's need for draft picks and financial breathing room creates natural trade synergy. While no formal discussions have been confirmed, this potential deal could reshape both teams' playoff trajectories.

What's Next

League observers will monitor:

• Baltimore's willingness to part with a franchise icon
• LA's urgency to maximize Herbert's championship window
• Potential competing offers from other TE-needy teams