Chargers want to sign Henry to long-term deal

On Thursday evening in Indianapolis, Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline reported that sources close to him said the LA Chargers “intend to work on a lengthier contract with (Hunter) Henry in the hopes of keeping him in the fold long-term”.

This is marvelous news. Some media outlets, such as Pro Football Focus, have written articles inferring that the Patriots would go after Henry in hopes of using him as a bargaining tool to keep Tom Brady in New England.

The idea of the Chargers allowing Henry to enter free agency always seemed insane. He’s been one of the most complete tight ends in the game, he’s just needed to stay healthy. The fifth-year tight end has had a string of horrendous luck over the last two years but that doesn’t mean as much of a death-sentence as some want to think. In back-to-back years, wide receiver Keenan Allen suffered a lacerated kidney and a torn ACL in a span of 10 months between 2015 and ‘16 yet has gone on to average over 100 catches and well-over 1,000 yards receiving over the last three campaigns.

In 12 games last year, Henry posted career-highs with 55 catches for 652 yards while fining the end zone on five different occasions. He also caught a pass for a first down over 36 times which was also a career-high.

No matter who or what type of quarterback ends up under center for the Chargers in 2020, they will be incredibly thankful to have a player like Henry to throw to.