The Los Angeles Chargers have made an effort to build the NFL’s top offensive line since Jim Harbaugh became the team’s head coach.
After taking Joe Alt in the first round last year and signing Mekhi Becton in free agency this offseason, the team may have the makings to do just that. With the additions, the Chargers could be in a position to part with a former third-round pick who will be relegated to being a backup.
Trey Pipkins III has spent the past six seasons with the Chargers, playing in 84 games and making 56 starts. He’s never quite lived up to the potential many felt he had coming out of Sioux Falls in 2019, but he has experience and could be the perfect swing tackle for the team.
However, Brandon Austin of PFSN, looking at one trade each team should make before the 2025 season starts, believes that the Houston Texans should inquire about a deal to obtain Pipkins.
The Houston Texans have had an eventful offseason, particularly when it comes to the offensive line. That unit was the team’s biggest weakness in 2024, and things initially got worse during free agency.
The Texans, who finished last season ranked 31st in PFSN’s OL+ metrics, traded away their top asset in left tackle Laremy Tunsil. They also dealt former first-round guard Kenyon Green. In response, Houston signed veteran Laken Tomlinson and acquired guard Ed Ingram in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings to help stabilize the group.
Second-round pick Aireontae Ersery is an imposing presence with starting potential at the NFL level, but he may not be ready to step into a shaky lineup from Day 1. That’s why bringing in a reliable veteran like Trey Pipkins III is a smart move.
Pipkins, formerly the Chargers’ starting RT, shifted to right guard last season after the team selected Joe Alt with the No. 5 overall pick. Now, with Los Angeles bringing in Mekhi Becton, likely to fill that RG spot, Pipkins may find himself on the outside looking in once again.
Over the past two seasons, Pipkins has started 46 games and brings valuable versatility with experience at both tackle spots and right guard. That combination, along with his age (just 28), makes him a viable trade candidate heading into a contract year”, wrote Austin.
It would be a shame for the Chargers to part with Pipkins, mostly because they likely wouldn’t get great value in return. But Pipkins is a free agent after this season and could be looking for a place where he could have a chance to start again. This could be the team’s chance to get at least something in return for him before he leaves for nothing, so if the Texans or any other team is interested in Pipkins’ services, the Chargers should listen to offers.
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