Charlie Kolar Could Break Out with Chargers Now That He's Free of Ravens

The Chargers didn’t break the bank when it came to adding experienced players in free agency. They did sign a tight end that may be on the verge of big things.

Oct 30, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar (88) reacts after catching a pass for a touchdown during the third quarter against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

In many ways, it makes total sense. A new team that just made a change at offensive coordinator. It’s a club that can certainly use some more help when it comes to catching passes but in the blocking department as well.

This offseason, the Los Angeles Chargers have spent more time re-signing their own players who could have hit the open market than opening up the checkbook for some notable free agents. It is what it is, but the Bolts reluctancy to spend when they have the cap room has been a very popular (or unpopular) subject.

TE Charlie Kolar is an ideal fit for Mike McDaniel’s offense

Nov 9, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar (88) runs with the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in the third quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images | Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

One newcomer that figures to make a significant impact this season is a performer who took a bit of a back seat with the franchise that made him a fourth-round draft choice in 2022. That year, the Baltimore Ravens used the 128th overall selection on Iowa State tight end Charlie Kolar. His career regular-season resume reads 30 catches for 409 yards (13.6 average) and four touchdowns in 47 games.

Don’t underestimate the impact Charlie Kolar will have on the Chargers

Not exactly awe-inspiring number. Of course, when you play on a team that employed three-time Pro Bowler Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely (now a member of the New York Giants), it had to be pretty hard racking up those receptions. Then again, the 6’6”, 265-pound is Pro Football Focus’ No. 10 player at his position, as well as the service’s 10th-ranked pass blocker.

Baltimore Ravens tight end Charlie Kolar (88) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson (55) in the second quarter of the NFL game at M&T Banks Stadium in Baltimore on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024. | Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Chargers inked Kolar to a three-year, $24 million deal in March, and he has an opportunity to become a full-time starter for Jim Harbaugh’s club. It's quite interesting to note that while 10 catches for 142 yards and two touchdowns may not be a lot to get excited about, all three of those figures are just a small sample of the career-bests he managed in his final season with the Ravens. From games played (17) and starts (7), to targets (15) and offensive snaps (402).

The Bolts’ new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who served as the Miami Dolphins’ head coach the previous four seasons. He’s also known for being creative in terms of the ground game, which is also Kolar’s specialty.

Meanwhile, don’t be surprised if the four-year pro takes more than a few catches away from 2025 rookie standout Oronde Gadsden II this season.