After experiencing a two-game losing streak heading into their bye week, the Los Angeles Chargers have shown considerable improvement throughout October.

In Week 6, they decisively defeated the Denver Broncos, followed by a narrow loss to the perplexing Arizona Cardinals in Week 7, despite Justin Herbert’s impressive 349 passing yards. Then, in Week 8, the Chargers triumphed over the New Orleans Saints, winning 26-8, with Ladd McConkey returning from injury to achieve his first 100-yard receiving game as a professional.

With upcoming matchups against the Cleveland Browns, Tennessee Titans, and Cincinnati Bengals—teams that collectively hold a record of 6-17—the 4-3 Chargers have a realistic shot at reaching 7-3 by Thanksgiving week. They will face the Baltimore Ravens on Monday Night Football, which adds to the urgency for the Chargers to bolster their roster if they aim to compete seriously this season and send Jim Harbaugh back to the playoffs. Even in a trade market where sellers are scarce, several intriguing players could catch the attention of Los Angeles’ front office.

First on the list is Diontae Johnson, a potential target the Chargers could acquire for a fourth-round pick. Currently, Ladd McConkey leads the Chargers in receiving, but questions linger about whether he can truly be a top-tier WR1 like Ja’Marr Chase or CeeDee Lamb. Johnson, originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been one of the few highlights for the Carolina Panthers this season, recording 30 catches for 357 yards and three touchdowns. He’s established himself as a clear WR1, significantly outpacing his teammates in targets. Adam Schefter has named him the top wide receiver likely to be traded before the deadline.

While there’s a chance Johnson could remain with the Panthers, he’s expected to explore free agency unless the team franchise tags him. For the Chargers, acquiring Johnson would mean adding a potent weapon to their offense, allowing Herbert to utilize a playoff-caliber receiver on the outside.

Another player of interest is Greg Newsome II, a former first-round pick from the Browns. Currently serving as Cleveland’s CB3, Newsome possesses the versatility to play in various defensive schemes, but his performance has slipped recently. For the Chargers, who lack depth in the cornerback position, he would provide an immediate upgrade, particularly with Asante Samuel Jr. on IR. Although the Chargers have shown competence against the pass this season, adding a young cornerback like Newsome could prove beneficial in a league that emphasizes passing.

In a related note, Christian Kirk, initially highlighted as a potential trade target for the Chargers, is now off the market due to a severe injury. Reports indicate that he is expected to miss the remainder of the season with a broken collarbone suffered during a game against the Green Bay Packers. While Kirk could have added a vertical threat to the Chargers’ offense, Johnson remains the more fitting option to enhance their receiving corps.

Overall, as the Chargers navigate the trade market, securing talent like Johnson or Newsome could be crucial in solidifying their playoff ambitions.