Chargers reveal how notable jersey number swap unfolded after free agency

Chargers tight end Will Dissly explains how the notable jersey swap unfolded with a former Los Angeles receiver returning in free agency.

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Will Dissly receives a pass during the first quarter against the Houston Texans in an AFC wild card game at NRG Stadium. | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers offense has been the focal point of the entire 2025 offseason. With the way last season ended, everyone who follows the team knew major changes needed to be made.

So, what does the franchise do? They go out and get one of the top running backs in the free agent class in Najee Harris, and add some much-needed protection to quarterback Justin Herbert, with the signing of Mekhi Becton.

However, there was still one more position that needed to see significant upgrades this offseason, and that was the wide receiver unit.

RELATED: Los Angeles Chargers coach drops blunt statement on maligned WR

The Chargers are hoping that 2025 NFL Draft selection Tre Harris can be a long-term answer; however, the team also went back to move forward by bringing in former Chargers receiver Mike Williams.

Williams spent seven seasons with the Chargers after being selected in the first round by the franchise in 2017. However, in his return, Williams realized his number 81 already belonged to tight end Will Dissly.

Chargers TE Will Dissly says as soon as he saw WR Mike Williams return he wanted to give him number 81, “let’s make it happen.”

He said Williams bought and donated jerseys to charity. pic.twitter.com/ug7XkQRnb9

— Fernando Ramirez (@RealFRamirez) June 3, 2025

However, Dissly is a team player, and the uniform swap was no issue between the two. Dissly wanted to make the number switch happen, and both parties seem happy with the results. The Chargers' tight end was seen wearing #89 in OTAs recently.

Williams split his 2024 season with the New York Jets before being traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, it seems that his former Los Angeles home has called him back one more time.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI —

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Chargers undrafted rookie starting to make noise at key position of need

Los Angeles Chargers coach drops blunt statement on maligned WR

Chargers linked to trade with unthinkable team, but it actually makes sense

Chargers' J.K. Dobbins sets up meeting with heated AFC West rival, could sign soon

Chargers keep interesting OL experiments going with Rashawn Slater out again