The hype of free agency has come and gone and now it’s time to look at what teams have gained and lost since March 15th and where they stand as they prepare for the upcoming draft. Let’s chat about the Los Angeles Chargers.
Los Angeles Chargers
Key acquisitions: LB Eric Kendricks
Re-signed: T Trey Pipkins, DE Morgan Fox, P J.K. Scott
Departures: S Nasir Adderley, LB Drue Tranquill (Chiefs), OT Storm Norton (Saints), WR DeAndre Carter (Raiders), DT Breiden Fehoko (Steelers)
Remaining free agents: LB Kyle Van Noy, CB Bryce Callahan, DE Christian Covington
Analysis: A pretty quiet offseason for the Chargers is not atypical. Outside of last year when they signed J.C. Jackson, Gerald Everett, Sebastian Joseph-Day, acquired Khalil Mack in a trade, and previously signed Corey Linsley the year prior, this is a draft and develop franchise.
Because of all of last years’ signings, the new acquisitions was a small number (1), but it was for a big time player. After being cut after eight years in Minnesota, star linebacker Eric Kendricks signed a two-year deal with LA to lead the middle of that defense. With Drue Tranquill signing with the division rival Chiefs and Kyle Van Noy still a free agent, they needed a new veteran leader. Pairing with former first-round Kenneth Murray, Kendricks brings over 900 career tackles and the ability to never leave the field. He’s known as the one of the best coverage linebacker in the league with nine career interceptions and 51 passes defensed. He’s the perfect addition to a team that really needs a spark.
The notable losses are the aforementioned Tranquill and Van Noy, along with the retirement of starting free safety Nasir Adderley, who tested the open market before his announcement. Still a free agent is veteran nickelback Bryce Callahan and rotational defensive tackle Christian Covington, as well as nose tackle Breiden Fehoko, who signed with the Steelers.
Conclusion: The Chargers really disappointed in 2022 after so much hype around their squad and offseason moves. Justin Herbert is a glorified superstar and should have a team around him to live up to that, and on paper they do, but for some reason it does not click.
Head coach Brandon Staley seat is piping hot, and anything short of a playoff win will certainly get him fired. Teams have won with less than what the Chargers have, so there’s no reason why this Los Angeles team can’t return to relevancy in 2023.
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