Chargers News: Bolts Insider Thinks LA Should Trade For Run-Blocking Tight End
The NFL October 31st trade deadline is approaching, and the Chargers, even with a 2-4 record, should be buyers this year.
With injuries to players like Mike Williams, Corey Linsley, and Austin Ekeler forcing them to miss some or significant time this season, the Bolts may look to add a player who can help in every facet of the offensive side of football.
Daniel Popper of The Athletic has listed one player that fits that mold for the Chargers that they could acquire at the end of this month.
Mo Alie-Cox, TE, Indianapolis Colts
The Chargers need to add a functional run blocker to their tight end room. The run blocking at tight end was an issue last season. It was a roster hole in the offseason. Telesco and Staley did not add any talent to that group through the draft or free agency. And it remains a problem as the Chargers’ rushing attack has stumbled in recent weeks.
Alie-Cox is a 6'5, 267-pound tight end for the Colts. He has spent his entire six year NFL career playing as their backup tight end and running blocking tight end.
But with a potentially season-ending injury suffered by their rookie quarterback, Anthony Richardson, the Colts may look to acquire some draft capital for these veterans.
With tight ends Gerald Everett and Donald Parham Jr. both being mainly pass-catching options, both of them struggle as run blockers. Alie-Cox excels in that field.
The Chargers — who have $9.18 million in 2023 cap space after trading away cornerback J.C. Jackson earlier this month, according to Over the Cap — could attack this roster hole in the trade market. Alie-Cox has two years left on a three-year deal he signed with Indianapolis in 2022, but he does not have any guaranteed money on his deal after this season, according to Over the Cap. Alie-Cox is a big body at 6 foot 5, 267 pounds who has provided the most value as a run blocker with the Colts. He would count for less than $3 million on the cap this season if the Chargers traded for him.
Alie-Cox only has four catches for 61 yards and a touchdown on the season for the Colts, so he is not a big part of their offensive passing game. The Chargers may be able to acquire the veteran run-blocker for a late-round draft pick at the end of October.
