Chargers GM Joe Hortiz responds to criticism on free agency approach

Many fans weren't happy with Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz following the moves he made in free agency.

The Chargers had over $90 million in cap space, the most of any team entering free agency, but there were mixed reviews on whether the front office did enough to address the roster's biggest needs.

For one, the Bolts failed to find a top-tier guard as their current starting option is Cole Strange, who signed a two-year, $13 million deal with LA.

All in all, they signed seven external free agents, with the biggest being center Tyler Biadasz.

Ultimately, Hortiz stuck to his conservative approach in free agency, despite the financial freedom to make a blockbuster deal.

“Philosophically, I just don’t believe in going out and having a shopping spree," Hortiz said. "You make smart investments in good players and build through the draft.”

Hortiz confirmed the Chargers were "in the hunt" for key internal free agents like Odafe Oweh and Zion Johnson, but ultimately walked away when the price exceeded their internal valuation.

The Chargers will have to cement their 2026 roster through the draft at the end of this month, which is Hortiz's front office philosophy.

Given their lack of splash in free agency, there will be much pressure on the Chargers to build a contending team, prioritizing talent in the draft. The Bolts have the No. 22 overall pick and currently only five picks.

Only time will tell what the state of the team will look like at the end of next week.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers GM Joe Hortiz responds to criticism on free agency approach