The NFL trade deadline came and went, and the Chargers are the same team after the trade of linebacker Daiyan Henley to the Broncos fell through.

Los Angeles made it clear they would not be sellers at the deadline; however, that didn't stop teams from calling about some of the Chargers' top players, including Ladd McConkey. 

According to ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler, the Rams inquired about McConkey ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. 

“Overall, though, the Rams didn't seriously consider a receiver move because they expect both Puka Nacua and Davante Adams to return this season. And in the short term, they believe Matthew Stafford can maximize the supporting cast of receivers.”

The Chargers wanted to keep their core players at all costs, even as this season went haywire, and they did. 

The Rams desperately need wide receiver help, as they’ll be without their top two pass-catchers for at least the next few weeks: Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. 

The Chargers view McConkey as a long-term piece alongside Justin Herbert. The Bolts entered the season viewing McConkey as their undisputed No. 1 wide receiver, and that's been true when he's been on the field.

However, injuries have derailed his season and, in turn, contributed to the disastrous offense we've witnessed from the Chargers.

Although the Chargers' hopes of salvaging the 2026 season appear slim, the organization has made a concerted effort to preserve its core for the years ahead.