Oweh’s 2025 production was notable, delivering 7.5 sacks in 12 regular-season games and totaling three sacks in the AFC wild-card win. The Chargers countered by bringing back future Hall of Famer Khalil Mack on a one-year deal, a veteran presence at age 34/35 who totaled 5.5 sacks in 12 games last season.
With free agency quiet, a draft-focused plan emerged: one draft analyst predicts the Chargers will trade back from the 22nd pick, swap with the Miami Dolphins for the 30th selection, and land Clemson edge rusher TJ Parker.
Parker’s resume stacks up as a potential long-term solution. In college, he posted 126 tackles, 41.5 tackles for loss, and 21.5 sacks across 39 games for Clemson. In 2025, Pro Football Focus graded him at 80.5 overall, with a 74.5% pass-rush win rate and a 77.5 run-defense grade.
If Parker lands in LA, he would serve behind Khalil Mack and emerging talent Tuli Tuipulotu, who combined for 18.5 sacks in 2025 (Tuipulotu itself had 13). Tuipulotu is entering the final year of his rookie deal, and there has been no public sign of an extension, underscoring Parker’s potential as a future anchor opposite Mack.
Analysts also note Parker’s edge-play style fits a defense that values immediate pressure and sturdy edges, though he must develop more speed to chase plays in space. Lance Zierlein highlighted Parker’s ability to set firm edges and shed to finish tackles, with room to grow in pursuit and overall production.
The Chargers’ defense finished among the top units in 2025, excelling in both run and pass defense. Adding TJ Parker would provide a sustainable, long-term answer at edge rusher, aligning with LA’s goal to maintain pressure-heavy fronts even as Khalil Mack’s tenure evolves.
