Chargers to interview longtime Ravens exec for GM opening again

After landing their desired option at head coach, the Chargers appear to be moving forward with their hiring process for a new general manager. After hosting Giants assistant general manager Brandon Brown for a second interview, the Chargers are now set to host Ravens director of player personnel Joe Hortiz for a second, in-person interview on Thursday, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

Hortiz has worked his way through the ranks in Baltimore’s front office since joining the franchise in 1998. Beginning in the scouting department, he became the team’s director of college scouting and enjoyed considerable success in the role. Hortiz held that position for 10 years before being promoted once again in 2019. He has overseen both pro and college scouting ever since.

The Chargers have been without Tom Telesco at the helm since he was dismissed alongside Brandon Staley midway through the season. The team thus has a vacancy at general manager for the first time since 2013. As is the case for the team’s coaching search, the presence of quarterback Justin Herbert on a long-term deal will likely make the Los Angeles posting an attractive one, but the roster does include a number of veterans on pricey contracts. Plenty of work will need to be done over the short and long term for the new general manager to sustainably set the team up for postseason contention during Herbert’s prime.

Here is an updated look at the Chargers’ GM search:

• Dawn Aponte, chief football administrative officer (NFL): Interviewed 1/22
• Brandon Brown, assistant general manager (Giants): Conducted second interview 1/24
• Ian Cunningham, assistant general manager (Bears): Interviewed 1/14
• Ed Dodds, assistant general manager (Colts): Interviewed 1/17
• Terrance Gray, vice president of player personnel (Bills): Interviewed 1/16
• Joe Hortiz, director of player personnel (Ravens): Interviewed 1/13; To conduct second interview 1/25
• Jeff Ireland, assistant general manager (Saints): Interviewed 1/17
• Jeff King, co-director of player personnel (Bears): Interviewed 1/19
• Will McClay, vice president of player personnel (Cowboys): Withdrew from consideration
• Adam Peters, assistant general manager (49ers): Interview requested
• JoJo Wooden, interim general manager (Chargers): Interviewed 1/11