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“According to Hortiz, we had four exceptional players with impressive contracts in terms of high volume and significant pay. We had to handle this situation by showing respect for all four players, recognizing their value, and acknowledging their contributions to our success.”

In the beginning of his time as general manager for the Los Angeles Chargers, Joe Hortiz was faced with a significant choice: whether to trade veteran standout Keenan Allen to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the draft.

“The truth is, with the limitations and circumstances we’re facing, it’s highly improbable for all four players to return and for us to have a well-rounded team with depth. Therefore, it wasn’t a feasible outcome. We knew we would have to make some changes and we were not set on any specific two players throughout the process.”

“I was aware of the player I was exchanging,” stated Hortiz on the team’s designated webpage. “He possesses great skill and I hold him in high regard both on and off the field. Making decisions to cut, trade, or release a player is always challenging.”

In 2024, the Chargers are facing challenges and the new team led by Jim Harbaugh will have to work hard to have a chance at winning the Super Bowl this year.

The scenario has a strong “this is how the NFL operates” vibe.

According to Hortiz, continually spending money without proper consideration can negatively impact our team’s depth and flexibility in the future. Our aim is to maintain flexibility year after year, but with a high-paying quarterback, we must be conscious of the salary cap.

“It can be challenging for a player like him, but it presents a chance for other players to shine,” added Hortiz. “We aren’t finished assembling that team, so we plan to keep bringing in new additions.”

Hortiz stated that the club presented various alternatives to Allen and his representatives, such as an extension, but unfortunately none of them were successful.

On Thursday, Hortiz stated that while he was reluctant to part ways with the player, financial factors forced him to make a difficult decision.

Hortiz’s primary responsibility this season was organizing the books, as the Chargers’ roster was unbalanced and struggled.

Allen’s representative took to social media to address the situation, stating that only one offer had been made. The offer was for a pay cut in 2024, with a two-year extension that included further reductions to Allen’s current salary. A counter offer was proposed, but was ultimately rejected. The Chargers then made it known that they intended to trade Allen.

Hortiz stated that trading Keenan should not be a decision made without considering his talents and ability to compete.

Both parties aimed to stay together. However, the new leaders of the Chargers wanted to regulate their finances, and despite having his best statistical season, Allen, at the age of 32, did not want to accept a salary decrease. Both sides have valid reasons for their stance. In the end, it’s just a matter of business.

The Los Angeles team had four significant agreements with older players that required attention: wide receivers Allen and Mike Williams and defensive linemen Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Bosa and Mack eventually agreed to reduce their pay. Allen was traded, and Williams was released, later joining the New York Jets.

Hortiz expressed his excitement at potentially going all-in for one year and his desire to continue competing for Super Bowls every year.

The GM is not worried about the lack of depth in the WR department. With the upcoming draft, the Chargers have an opportunity to strengthen their group led by Quentin Johnston and Josh Palmer.

Hortiz’s approach is clearly not to rely on the company credit card and defer salary-cap issues for the future. Therefore, it is likely that the Chargers will take their time in making moves during free agency under his leadership.