Wednesday, March 5, 2026, 10:42 a.m. Pacific Time
The Chargers waived Will Dissly on Wednesday, leaving Oronde Gadsden II as their sole tight end.
Los Angeles is expected to actively seek a tight end who aligns with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s system, possessing both athletic prowess and strong blocking capabilities.
Below are six potential candidates for LA, including options from free agency and the upcoming draft.
Charlie Kolar, Ravens
Kolar stands out as a top blocker available. In 2025, he was 8th among tight ends with a 71.5 run-blocking grade and a 75.5% run-block win rate. Despite limited receiving opportunities playing behind Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely in Baltimore, Kolar has demonstrated efficiency, averaging 13.6 yards per catch since his debut. General manager Joe Hortiz is familiar with Kolar from their shared time with the Ravens organization.
Isaiah Likely, Ravens
Likely presents a strong receiving threat capable of excelling in the passing game. After primarily being secondary to Mark Andrews during his Ravens tenure, he appears poised for a leading role, having accumulated 60 receptions, 675 yards, and eight touchdowns across 26 career starts. His attributes include elite athleticism, a wide catch radius, and enhanced run-blocking skills. Similar to Kolar, Likely also has a prior relationship with Hortiz.
Though less athletic than Likely, Otton provides a combination of effective pass-catching and dependable run-blocking. He has achieved 59 receptions in consecutive seasons (2024–2025) and has shown consistent reliability and durability, playing over 92% of snaps across his career.
Dulcich is another tight end acquainted with McDaniel’s offensive scheme, having played under him last season. While a decent blocker, his primary value lies in his receiving prowess. He was arguably one of the most productive tight ends in the latter half of the 2025 season, making a reception of 20+ yards in seven out of ten games. From Week 9 to Week 17, he was 12th among tight ends in receiving yards (335).
Jonnu Smith, Steelers
Smith previously thrived under McDaniel’s coaching. In 2024, playing for the Dolphins with McDaniel, he achieved personal bests of 88 receptions, 884 yards, and 8 touchdowns, leading to a Pro Bowl selection. His production decreased slightly last season with the Steelers, where he caught 38 passes on 54 targets for 222 yards and two scores. Nevertheless, the Steelers’ offense is not typically conducive to tight end success.
Darren Waller, Dolphins
While perhaps not a popular choice, this signing holds logical appeal. Waller will turn 34 next season, but he shares a history with McDaniel and has demonstrated his ability to score. Following his retirement in 2024, Waller joined the Dolphins in 2025 and notably led the team with six touchdown catches in only nine appearances. The Chargers would probably utilize him primarily as a red-zone specialist, rather than an every-down player.