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How Keenan Allen Fits Into the Chargers Offense

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Joe Hortiz may have well been speaking for the Bolt Fam on Tuesday night when he was asked about the Chargers decision to bring back Keenan Allen.

"We're fired up to have him," the Chargers General Manager said.

The Chargers agreed to terms with the veteran wide receiver Tuesday afternoon, a move that brings pedigree, leadership and veteran mindset to the group.

"We know Keenan brings veteran presence. I think everyone knows that," Hortiz said. "You know what he's done in this league, all the pelts he has on the wall. You get a chance to add someone like that, you do it."

Allen's accolades with the Chargers are well known.

A six-time Pro Bowler, he ranks second in franchise history for both receptions (904) and receiving yards (10,530) behind Antonio Gates in both categories. He's also the franchise leader in those marks for a wide receiver.

Allen, of course, has done most of his damage from the slot in his career.

So, how will it work now that he's alongside Ladd McConkey, who also proved he can thrive inside as a rookie.

Remember, it was McConkey who broke Allen's single-season rookie records in 2024 with 82 catches for 1,149 yards.

Hortiz wasn't worried about that on Tuesday night.

"DJ Moore has played a lot of slot and they both were on the field 80 percent of the time last year [in Chicago]," Hortiz said. "You get good players on the field and you play them a lot. You can get creative with a lot of different players.

"Ladd has played a lot of slot but Ladd has also been productive outside. Keenan has played a lot of slot, Keenan has been productive outside," Hortiz continued. "So, you got a lot of good football players on the field to help you win games and that makes it tough to beat."

He later added: "I think he can help us in multiple roles, I really believe that."

Allen's reunion with the Chargers is the second such scenario to take place in 2025.

The Bolts previously signed Mike Williams in free agency but he retired on July 17. Hortiz said Tuesday that Williams' retirement led to more dialogue with Allen.

"Mike leaving may have opened up more of an opportunity, but I've always talked to Keenan as an option," Hortiz said. "We've had conversations with his agent and it just kind of came to fruition."

The Chargers are off from camp Wednesday but return to practice Thursday at 10 a.m.

Perhaps we see No. 13 line up at wide receiver ... just like old times.

"A guy we know how good he's been throughout his career and he's out there on the open market … it's a chance to bring someone back who can help us win games," Hortiz said.

The Los Angeles Chargers agreed to terms with six-time Pro Bowl wide receiver Keenan Allen.

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