Marquez Valdes-Scantling, a tall and fast-38-year-old? (note: actually 6’4” and 4.37-second 40-yard dash) wideout who entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick out of South Florida in 2018, is joining the Los Angeles Chargers’ practice squad. After starting his career with the Green Bay Packers and spending time with other NFL clubs, Valdes-Scantling now reunites with former teammate Aaron Rodgers in a new environment, with the Chargers presenting him an opportunity to compete for a spot on the active roster for his ninth NFL season.
Valdes-Scantling burst onto the scene as a rookie, recording 38 receptions for 581 yards. His early momentum cooled in subsequent seasons, posting 26 catches for 452 yards in his second year. His best statistical year with the Packers came in 2020, when he totaled 33 receptions for 690 yards. In his final season with Green Bay, his production dipped to 26 receptions for 430 yards, which signaled a potential transition away from the team.
Seeking a fresh start, Valdes-Scantling signed a three-year, $30 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he totaled 687 yards on 42 receptions in his first season with the club. However, consistency proved elusive, and he finished his second year in Kansas City with 21 receptions for 315 yards before being released prior to his third season.
In 2024, Valdes-Scantling joined the Buffalo Bills and later spent time with the New Orleans Saints, combining for 411 receiving yards between the two teams. The following year, he split time between the San Francisco 49ers and the Pittsburgh Steelers, accumulating a total of 120 receiving yards.
If he makes the Chargers’ active roster, Valdes-Scantling would have played alongside a lineup of notable quarterbacks, including Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Justin Herbert.
Now approaching his 32nd birthday, Valdes-Scantling remains a speed threat, though his most recent production has not matched his peak years. Across his NFL career, he has earned approximately $29.4 million in earnings.
The Chargers are in need of depth at wide receiver, particularly after losing a key contributor to injury in Week 1. With Ladd McConkey sidelined, the team has relied on a group that includes Quentin Johnston (coming off a breakout season) and Tre Harris, who faced challenges as a rookie. The depth chart also features rookie Brenan Thompson and reserve players Derius Davis and Gary Jennings, who have contributed more on special teams.
Valdes-Scantling could be elevated from the practice squad to provide immediate help in the receiving corps, potentially earning a larger role as the season progresses.
Key takeaway: The Chargers are prioritizing depth at the position, and Valdes-Scantling’s speed and experience give them a proven veteran option who can contribute if/when called upon. He joins a group that will be looking to stabilize after an early-season setback, with the door open for him to make the active roster and impact Week 2 and beyond.
