NFL News: Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers sign rugby star to bolster Justin Herbert’s offense for the 2025 season

The Los Angeles Chargers have acquired a unique talent. The AFC West club looked internationally and signed a new offensive weapon to help Justin Herbert succeed in the 2025 NFL season.

Last year, the Chargers made a major move by hiring Jim Harbaugh. The accomplished coach had an exceptional tenure with the Michigan Wolverines, but his ultimate goal was to return to the NFL.

When Los Angeles offered him a lucrative deal, he didn’t hesitate to accept. However, it wasn’t just the money that convinced him—it was also the talented roster the team already had in place.

Chargers sign rugby star to bolster Justin Herbert’s offense

For many fans, the Chargers have the potential to become a competitive team in the near future. While the club already had star players in previous years, Jim Harbaugh’s arrival is seen as the key to finally achieving success.

Justin Herbert was already a rising star, but the lack of a top-tier coach prevented him from reaching his full potential. That changed with Harbaugh’s arrival, as the quarterback has shown clear improvement under his guidance.

However, the coach knows that for Herbert to take his game to the next level, he needs to be surrounded by talented playmakers. For that reason, the Chargers have looked overseas to acquire a hidden gem from Australia.

On Wednesday, the Chargers signed Jordan Petaia through the International Player Pathway program. He previously played rugby in Australia with the Queensland Reds and is listed as a tight end.

Petaia has competed in two Rugby World Cups (2019 in Japan and 2023 in France) with the Wallabies. At just 18 years old, he became the youngest Australian to play in a World Cup, solidifying his status as a top-tier athlete who could bring a new dimension to the Chargers’ offense.

Will Jordan Petaia be the Chargers’ starting tight end?

While Jordan Petaia has had a phenomenal rugby career, transitioning to football will be a major adjustment. He will likely start as the team’s second or third tight end this year to allow him to develop his skills at a steady pace.

As of now, Will Dissly and Tyler Conklin appear to be the top two tight ends on the Chargers’ depth chart. However, a standout summer could help Petaia make his case and prove why he has the potential to become a star in the near future.