Los Angeles traded Desmond King to Tennessee for the 2021…

The Exchange

Tennessee acquired defensive back Desmond King from the Chargers on November 2, 2020, sending Los Angeles a 2021 sixth-round pick. The Chargers later used that selection, No. 185 overall, on linebacker Nick Niemann. Club and trade records connect the player, pick, and downstream selection cleanly.

San Diego Chargers Return

Los Angeles traded Desmond King to Tennessee for the 2021 sixth-round pick later used on Nick Niemann. King helped the Titans only for the remainder of 2020 before leaving, while Niemann gave the Chargers four seasons of regular special-teams service. The pick produced the longer club return, so Los Angeles earns the moderate hindsight win.

Houston Oilers Return

Tennessee acquired Desmond King from the Chargers for a 2021 sixth-round selection that became Nick Niemann. King was a useful short-term addition but left after the 2020 season, while Niemann remained with Los Angeles for four seasons as a regular special-teams contributor. Tennessee got immediate help, but the Chargers ultimately realized more durable value.

Value in Hindsight

This is a classic short-term-versus-long-term comparison. Tennessee paid a late pick for immediate help during a competitive season, a reasonable objective at the time. In hindsight, however, King did not remain with the Titans, while the sixth-rounder became a player who filled a special-teams role for Los Angeles across four seasons. Niemann's value was not flashy, but roster longevity matters when the acquisition cost is low. That makes the Chargers' side more productive over time, while Tennessee still deserves credit for receiving a usable veteran rather than an empty return.

Final Verdict

Los Angeles gets the moderate win. A B- rewards four seasons of useful service from Niemann, while Tennessee's C acknowledges King's short-term contribution. The Chargers simply received the more durable return from the same transaction.