Early 2021 NFL free agency rankings: George Kittle headlines top 70 players

36. Desmond King, CB, Los Angeles Chargers

King fell to the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft before the Chargers picked him with the 151st overall selection. As a rookie, King served primarily as a slot cornerback and kick returner. His role hasn’t changed much over the past two years, except he started returning punts. In 2018, King earned a First-Team All-Pro selection as a defensive back and a Second-Team All-Pro selection as a punt returner.

Compared to his first two seasons, 2019 was a disappointing year for King. The Iowa product’s role is Los Angeles could change this season. The Chargers signed Chris Harris, and the team plans on playing the former All-Pro in the slot. Does that mean King shifts outside? It seems like the fourth-year pro’s role in Los Angeles is shrinking ahead of his free agency.

35. Hunter Henry, TE (Franchise Tag), Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers want Henry around for the long haul. The franchise pegged him as Antonio Gates’ successor years ago, and they don’t plan on letting the former second-round pick walk away in free agency. That’s why the Chargers used their franchise tag on Henry. He’ll make $10.607 million this coming season, which is slightly above his market value.

Over his first four seasons, Henry proved he could produce at a borderline Pro Bowl level. Unfortunately, the Arkansas product can’t stay healthy for a full season. Henry missed two games in 2017, sat out the entire 2018 season with a torn ACL, and missed four weeks this past year. If Henry can prove he’s capable of staying healthy, the Chargers should give him a long-term deal.