What to Expect From TE Charlie Kolar in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Chargers signed TE Charlie Kolar to a three-year, $24.3 million deal with $17 million guaranteed this offseason, making him the NFL’s highest-paid blocking tight end.

Behind breakout fifth-round rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden II, the position was uncertain following the release of veteran Will Dissly, making the addition of Kolar—a willing blocker with untapped receiving potential—all the more important.

The 27-year-old is a former fourth-round pick of the Baltimore Ravens in the 2022 NFL Draft, where he spent the first four seasons of his career. While Charlie Kolar recorded just 30 receptions on 41 targets for 409 yards and four touchdowns during that span, he carved out a role as a dependable in-line blocker, earning a 71.5 run-blocking grade in 2025, according to Pro Football Focus.

That blocking ability is where Kolar can make his biggest early impact. His experience in a system that emphasizes physicality and tight end versatility in Baltimore translates well to what Los Angeles is trying to build, especially under new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. His ability to seal lanes and sustain blocks should help create more consistent rushing production.

For a team looking to establish more balance, Kolar immediately strengthens the run game and stabilizes a depth role at tight end. He is a gritty, physical player who fits the Chargers’ identity and brings experience from a similar schematic environment.

While his receiving numbers were modest in Baltimore, they came in a crowded tight end room led by Mark Andrews and within a run-heavy offense. When he was targeted, he showed soft hands and an understanding of spacing, making him a viable option in play-action and short-to-intermediate situations. He shouldn’t be overlooked as a pass catcher if opportunities arise.

Kolar gives the Chargers flexibility in how they can structure their tight end rotation. His ability to serve as a traditional in-line tight end allows the coaching staff to move Gadsden II into more favorable receiving alignments rather than forcing him into heavy blocking duties. That type of role can help maximize both players’ strengths while keeping the offense more versatile on early downs and in the red zone.

Kolar also brings value on special teams, where his size and physicality make him a reliable option in multiple phases. If he settles into his role quickly, he could earn early snaps while allowing the Chargers to stay consistent in heavier personnel without sacrificing efficiency or predictability.

Kolar will be transitioning from John Harbaugh to Jim Harbaugh, which should help him adjust quickly and contribute early.