Trevor Penning couldn't help but smile and laugh after arriving in cool El Segundo weather from New Orleans early Wednesday morning.
Less than 24 hours had passed since he was told about a deal he wasn't expecting as he stood in front of his new locker at the end of the hallway in Chargers'club house. A poster detailing Penning's high school ranking and the schools he attended had not yet been placed on his counter next to long snapper Josh Harris.
“It’s just crazy overnight,” said the fourth-year offensive lineman and former Saints first-round draft pick in 2022. “You'll get five more wins for [the record]. … I’m really excited to be here.”
Penning, acquired by the Chargers (6-3) just before Tuesday's NFL trade deadline — New Orleans received a 2027 sixth-round draft pick in exchange for the 6-foot-7, 325-pound tackle — joins a team battling the Broncos at the top of the AFC West.
When the Northern Iowa graduate checked into the Saints' facility on Monday, he was on the team with the worst record (1-8) in the NFC.
Now Penning will look to bolster the Chargers' quarterback protection. Justin Herberthas been sacked 28 times, third-most among all NFL quarterbacks this season. The Chargers were in desperate need of a lineman after losing an offensive tackle. Joe Alt suffered a season-ending ankle injury..
“[Penning’s] just learning the basics, just getting the rhythm going and adjusting to our game calls and things like that,” Herbert said. “Obviously I knew about him, and obviously [I’m] big fan. Huge respect for his game. This is a great opportunity – I'm sure he will play attack very quickly.”
Penning said he, like many players and fans, was familiar with Chargers coach Jim Harbaughattitude and approach while growing up. The former high school prospect from Clear Lake, Iowa, who became a star in the Missouri Valley Football Conference, said he believes his personality traits on and off the field fit the Chargers' culture.
“That’s good to hear,” Harbaugh said when asked about Penning’s comments. “I like guys who love football. Guys who love football seem to love me back. … [Penning] seems to me like a guy who is completely busy with his business, and came [and] did everything right. I’m very glad to have him on our team.”
During practice this week, the Chargers worked Penning at both tackle spots. He played left tackle in 2022 and 2023, right tackle in 2024 and some left guard in 2025.
Where and how Penning fits is a question that has yet to be answered, and Sunday's game against the Steelers may provide some answers.
Penning is ready for the new start that awaits him.
“I'm glad to play where they need me,” Penning said. “I think I have versatility.”
