Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh on Keenan Allen trade: ‘It’s the business part of the NFL’

Jim Harbaugh spoke to the media at the NFL’s annual owners meetings for the first time since Keenan Allen was traded to the Bears.

It’s the business part of the NFL. Everybody does what’s best for them. Joe [Hortiz] talked about it last week. It’s very transparent. It’s the buisness part of it. Everybody does what’s in their best intesrest. And Keenan? Make $23 million a year, play in Chicago. You know? Who’s got it better?

Harbaugh stated that Joe Hortiz and Allen’s agent, Joby Branion, primarily facilitated the deal to send Allen to the Bears. Harbaugh mentioned Allen doing what was right for his family.

With Mike Williams leaving to the Jets on a one-year, $15 million, Harbaugh also mentioned that he did what was in his best interest. With Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack staying for 2024, Harbaugh said he’s “thrilled” to have those two return.

Asked about plans for the wide receiver room, Harbaugh said that he’s “excited” about Quentin Johnston, Josh Palmer, and Derius Davis in the wide receiver room. Like Hortiz said in his press conference last week, Harbaugh was quick to point out free agency as a source for talent in addition to the draft.

The Chargers could end up addressing their receiver room with one of the class’ top talents like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, or Rome Odunze. However, Hortiz did note the depth of the wide receiver class back at his combine presser. Free agents like Odell Beckham Jr. and Michael Gallup remain on the market.

Whatever combination of options the Chargers choose, I’d be willing to bet this is far from their final depth chart at the wide receiver position.