Chargers Confidential

Lo-Neal Looks Better In Blue-And-Gold

Tue, 19 May 2009 15:27:19 +0000

While not worthy of much attention, the Raiders recently made a move that raised a few eyebrows here in San Diego. Last week, the Raiders and their "Commitment To Geriatrics" signed FB Lorenzo Neal. At first glance, it's easy to write this one off as a bad team signing another over-the-hill player. In my opinion, I think this signing could actually be more ammunition for the AJ Smith is out-of-touch crowd.

Now don't get me wrong. Are the Raiders going to shock the world and win the AFC West? Heck no. They'll be competing with the Denver Broncos for last place in a weak division. But on a team with three strong running backs, Neal could be just what the Raiders need to start turning things around on offense. And facing him twice a year, watching him consistently hitting his blocks... Well, let's just hope that the big guy really has lost a step or three.

In letting Neal walk after the 2007 season, it was assumed that any decent fullback could fill his aging Pro Bowl shoes. Jacob Hester, a RB/FB, was drafted soon after. And after an impressive camp, undrafted free agent Mike Tolbert was tagged as the starting fullback after injuries took Andrew Pinnock out of the running.

Tolbert's hands were good enough to get him into games, but his blocking was another story. After too many missed blocks and too many lost opportunities for a struggling running game, it was obvious that the Bolts were missing Neal's penchant for making the block that needed to be made. Due to injury, Hester replaced Tolbert and seemed to get better over time. But were either of those rookies as good as Neal? No, not even an over-the-hill version of him.

On a team that lost seven games by a TD or less and had a problem controlling the clock, it's easy to see how a few extra sustained drives could have equaled a couple of extra wins. Would it have mattered in the playoffs? Who knows? But that Chargers team may have had a better chance with a better fullback making better blocks.

This is by no means a knock on Hester. I think the guy gets a bad rap because the Chargers spent too much to get him. There is a chance he could grow into an effective fullback, albeit not a Lorenzo Neal style of player. I don't think that he'll ever be a prototypical blocking fullback.

Last off-season, much was made about coach Norv's preference to minimize the roll of the fullback in his offense. Now, after the dust has settled on a disappointing season, the lack of an effective fullback was one of the glaring weaknesses in an otherwise talented Chargers offense. For a position that isn't that important it sure stands out as one position that could have made the difference offensively. As for the Raiders and their new fullback, I'm not predicting a Pro Bowl for Lo-Neal this season, but I'm not predicting one for Hester and Tolbert either. If you need a blocking fullback, who do you want in your backfield?

Larry English And the Future Of The Pass Rush

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 06:22:30 +0000

On a team who's best defensive player is an outside linebacker, the Chargers spent their first round pick on...an outside linebacker? Seems pretty stupid at first glance, doesn't it? While I was hoping we would take a DE like Robert Ayers or an OT like Michael Oher, apparently AJ Smith had something else in mind. I am happy he went with a defensive player in the first round, and the sound of a more vicious pass-rush is music to my ears. I'm still a little worried about our ability to stop the run, but maybe 4th-rounder Vaughn Martin will surprise us.

From what we're hearing from the Chargers' brass, Larry English will be more than a backup to Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips. In college he played some defensive end, but he's already being touted as part of a three-headed monster at linebacker, with Merriman and English rushing off the outside, and Phillips roaming the middle looking for a good angle from which to blitz. And honestly, I do like that sound of that. English was a stud in college, albeit against limited competition. But a stud is a stud- he has the size and the attitude to succeed on the defensive front seven.

The one concerning aspect of his drafting is that it is yet another sign that Merriman is not going to be a Charger for as long as we'd like him to be. Much has been written about Merriman's future contract demands, and the Chargers' concerns about his ability to stay healthy. Add to the mix a capable replacement in English (if everything goes according to plan), and Merriman could be gone before you know it. I think we can safely assume that Lights Out will be a Charger through 2009. What about 2010, even with a franchise tag available? Why would AJ offer him a large 1-year deal, just to see him walk with little compensation in return? If English turns out to be a solid performer, I wouldn't be surprised to see Merriman franchised in 2010 and his rights be traded to the highest bidder. And who else (besides AJ) wouldn't offer up the world for a guy like Merriman? Obviously if a new bargaining agreement isn't worked out before 2010, we have another year before we have to worry about it. But with a guy of Merriman's caliber, I'm already starting to worry about it.

Maybe the trio of Merriman, Phillips, and English will be so dominant that AJ decides we have to keep the three of them together. Maybe the defense pulls together and wins us the ring we are so desperate for, allowing Merriman and AJ to become close buddies united around that common purpose. Maybe, Larry English was the key to unlock the door to a championship...or he's here to show Merriman the door. The clock is ticking on that Super Bowl dream.

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Interview With The Oracle: Draft Edition

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 21:09:41 +0000

Eddie Pappani from the Chargers' Countdown To Kickoff show was good enough to give us his perspective of this weekend's NFL Draft. Those who know Eddie know him as "The Sports Oracle", and those who don't need to start listening to the Mikey Show on Rock 105.3. On with the interview...

Jeff: What's up Oracle? The NFL Draft is almost here! I'm amazed out how big this thing has gotten. The NFL has really become a 365-day a year event. What are your plans for draft day?

Eddie: I have been a draft geek since I was a little kid. I read a ton of publications and stay on top of it all year. It is my favorite sporting event all year. I have been to the draft several times as a reporter and it is so awesome. This year I will be an analyst on XTRA Sports 1360. We will be on from noon to 4pm. Should be a blast!

Jeff: No 28-hour draft show (Editor: Mikey Show inside joke)? You know I'm not giving up on that idea !

Eddie: I could do it. I can talk about the draft all day. I think Mel Kiper is my soul mate.

Jeff: So last year at this time the Chargers were seen as having the most talented roster in football. Where do you think they rank going into this year's draft?

Eddie: They are still at the top. They have talent at every position. Of course they have some holes to fill, but they are still deep.

Jeff: There a few directions in which the Chargers could go in round one. Based on need, what are the areas the Chargers most need to improve upon this weekend?

Eddie: Defensive End is #1 in my book. They need to replace Igor. Which won't be that hard to do. Next, I would like to see them grab an O-lineman. We need to fix the right side. There are some guys that can step in and play right tackle from day one. After that, I would like to see them grab another safety, inside linebacker, and maybe a running back. I disagree with most people saying we need to get a running back early. I think we are fine right now. Maybe next year we can address that need.

Jeff: Time to put on the GM hat. Based on who you think will be available at #16, who would be the Chargers first round selection?

Eddie: I hope that Everette Brown is there. He is a defensive end from Florida St. He is exactly what the Bolts need. A playmaking DE. He can rush the passer, and help with the run. I think he would be perfect. If he is gone, then you can look at some other DE's on the board. Probably Tyson Jackson from LSU and Robert Ayers from Tennessee could be there. Possible options. They may like Michael Oher, a tackle from Mississippi. He could start at RT from day one and move Clary inside to guard. I know some people would want them to take Rey Maualuga, the linebacker from USC. I like him, but think we have other needs.

Jeff: In reality, do you think the Chargers will end up with a different player than one of those whom you mentioned?

Eddie: It's too hard to say. There are so many variables. It's a crap shoot. It's like trying to predict the weather. They could go in a totally different direction. Who knows.

Jeff: Any chance the Chargers trade down to pick up an extra 1st/2nd round pick?

Eddie: It's always an option. They tend to screw up their 2nd round picks, so I kinda hope they don't. Let's get a money player at 16 and then see what happens.

Jeff: Beyond the draft, what do you think about the possibility that the NFL will move to an 18-game regular season within a few years?

Eddie: I'm ok with it. I'm a bit of a traditionalist. It must be how older dudes felt when they went from 14 to 16 games. It feels weird. But if it eliminates 2 preseason games, I'm all for it.

Jeff: Yeah, I'm torn. Why change when what you are doing works so well? But an extra two-weeks of real football, not that exhibition stuff? Tough to complain about that! I'll be sure to check in with you guys on Saturday. As always, thanks for taking some time to talk Chargers football!

Eddie: My pleasure. Let's get someone good AJ! Call me...

Eddie Pappani is co-host of the Chargers pregame show on Rock 105.3, as well as the Producer and Sports Oracle of the Mikey Show from 6am-10am, Monday-Friday on Rock 105.3.

Breaking Down The Roster- Linebackers

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 03:44:47 +0000

Less than a week until the draft! I seriously can't wait. My wife has already been warned that I will be unavailable for a majority of the weekend. And like any good wife, I can count on her to not complain about it until at least an hour into the thing. Gotta love her...

Anyway, just a few positions left to cover in our review of the current Chargers roster. Next up we look at the linebacker spot. Just last year I wrote that the linebacker corps is probably the deepest of any team in the NFL. Last year, the Chargers put that statement to the test and I'll admit that the results were mixed, if not entirely disappointing.

With Shawne Merriman taking a not-so-unexpected early exit from the season and Stephen Cooper serving a four-game suspension, the Bolts quickly put their depth to the test. Jyles Tucker replaced Lights Out and was a below-average to average player. If you look at it objectively, you have to admit that it would have been all but impossible to replace the league's best defensive player, but Tucker did nothing to earn him a reprieve from any criticism. Replacing Cooper was free-agent signee Derek Smith. Yeah, he was cut before the end of the season once Cooper was back in game shape.

You've heard it before, and you're going to hear it again (and again) - the Chargers defense was a different unit without Merriman. Shaun Phillips was average. Matt Wilhelm was exposed as a 2^nd stringer, and began sharing more time with back-up Tim Dobbins. The rest of the much-heralded back-ups were no better than anyone else's back-ups, and our former Defensive Coordinator did nothing to adjust. Rather than create ways to rush the passer, our LB's were forced into pass coverage far too often, and they didn't seem to be very good at it. Ron Rivera was able to slow the bleeding, but the LB corps never found a way to plug the hole created by the loss of Merriman.

Going into the 2009 draft and season, the linebacker position has received a lot of attention. Merriman should be recovered from his knee injury (if you believe him, he'll be in the best shape of his pro-career). Kevin Burnett was signed to compete for a starting inside spot next to Cooper. Former 3^rdrounder Anthony Waters was cut because he wasn't making the progress that the team had hoped he would. Now some "experts" and a lot of fans expect the Bolts to take USC linebacker Rey Maualuga, although recent reports that he may have torn a hamstring are likely to end that discussion. Beyond Rey, there isn't much 1^st or 2^nd round talent available at inside LB. The Chargers might draft a project later in the draft, but expect the competition for starting inside LB to be a three-man race between Wilhelm, Dobbins, and Burnett. I'm picking Burnett to earn the 1^st-string spot.

Breaking Down The Roster- DL

Sat, 11 Apr 2009 17:36:38 +0000

As we continue our breakdown of the Chargers roster position-by-position heading into the final two-weeks before the draft, we turn our attention to the defense. As a whole, the defensive unit was almost as bad as it gets for most of 2008. Ron Rivera took the reigns as Defensive Coordinator midseason and was able to improve the struggling group, but there is still a lot of work to be done.

The defensive line took a lot of heat for failing to pressure the QB and more importantly failing to stop the run. As teams learned that they could pass on the Chargers almost at will, the blame was primarily shouldered by the secondary, yet the defensive line played an important role in the failure of their pass defense.

This is another one of those "What a difference a year makes" moments. In 2007, with a healthy Shawne Merriman creating havoc all over the field, the D-line received a lot of praise for getting to the quarterback and stuffing the run. They excelled at hitting the QB in the pocket and forcing turnovers, and were a true force to be reckoned with. Then came 2008, and a turn-around that shocked most NFL experts. Luis Castillo received a big contract and was designated a cornerstone of the defensive line on the left side, but his play was a different story. Castillo was consistently inconsistent when blocked one-on-one and was no serious threat for a majority of the year. Igor Olshansky, who is strong enough to bench press a Hummer full of The Biggest Loser contestants, never seemed to be able to use that strength to his advantage on the field. During most games last year, his name was called less often than Samantha Ronson's at a beauty pageant. He has since moved on to the Cowboys.

Jamal Williams continued to anchor the line at nose-tackle. While it took him some time to work his way into game-shape, he quickly returned to Pro Bowl form. Chargers fans are hoping he has at least one more good season in him, but everyone knows it's time to start thinking about his replacement.

That brings us to this year's draft. In past columns I've made the case to go O-line in the 1st round of the draft, but there's a great case to be made to go defense. It's very possible that the four top O-linemen will be gone by pick 16, leaving the Bolts to focus on the best defensive player available. There's a good chance Rey Maualuga will be available, but I would prefer to see the Chargers pick up DE Everette Brown from Florida State (if they're lucky) or DE Tyson Jackson (LSU), which is much more likely. It's either that or we're stuck with Ryon Bingham filling the void at defensive end.

Offensive line...defensive line...damned if you do, and damned if you don't. How do you fill two big holes with one pick in the first two rounds? Anyone else feeling a trade on the horizon?

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So Long Mr. Cutler

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 02:23:38 +0000

Jay Cutler...man (well, boy), myth (like the self-perpetuated myth that he was better than Elway), legend (only in his own mind)...and now, Chicago Bear. And the Bears' drama at QB continues.

I'll let you in on a little secret- I'm a closet Bears fan. I fell in love with the team (and really, football in general) during the 1986 Super Bowl win by the Bears, and although the Chargers will always be MY team, the Bears will always have a special place in my heart. With the Bears now in the spotlight, I can't let Thursday's Bears-Bronco trade slip by without offering my two-cents on the deal.

My first thought? The Broncos absolutely made out. No other team was offering close to what the Bears paid. My second thought? The Bears got hosed! Trading a lot of the future away for a QB with a solid arm and very questionable head? You're taking a HUGE risk.

My dislike of Jay Cutler has been well documented (see my previous blog, Jay Cutler- Looking For The Spotlight, here). There's no doubt that Cutler has a strong arm. There's also little doubt, especially now, that he has an immature head holding one very poor attitude, truly a quarterback in the Jeff George-mold (no, that's not a compliment).

As frustrating as it is to see an AFC West rival receive such a great assortment of draft picks, I'm more disappointed that the Chargers won't have Cutler to pick on twice a year anymore. The fact that Cutler is winless against the Chargers (since last year's week-2 victory was a win for Ed Hochuli) made Bronco games almost as much fun as watching the Chargers beat the Raiders twice a year. Plus, knowing that Cutler talked more smack than he could ever back up made the spectacle even more entertaining.

So to Jay I say "So long!" You may be gone, but you will never be forgotten. At least until your career turns south and your oversized ego runs you out of the Windy City. And then I can once again pull for the Bears.

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So, Which Was The Immature One?

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 20:22:34 +0000

Over the last couple of years, we have heard (or, since it is mostly on message boards, seen) an awful lot of trash talk from all over the league and most especially from Denver. The subject was what an "immature jerk" Philip Rivers was. It was all precipitated by an incident where Jay Cutler and Philip, among others, engaged in a cross-field yelling match.

When Philip was later noticed exchanging words with fans in Indianapolis, the masses seized on it as proof that Cutler was blameless and that Rivers was an childish arrogant instigator.

Hmmmm, Anyone interested in re-thinking that position now?

Rivers has simply proved over and over again that he is a leader of men. Yes, he is also a very emotional player. But his maturity being questioned always seemed rather silly when you considered his response to on-field challenges to his composure, dating back to the multiple comebacks of his first year as a starter. Especially the Seattle game, where L.T. was all but ignored on the final drive.

Now, Cutler has pouted his way into forcing a trade. When the Broncos explored the possibility of a mutually-beneficial trade with New England that touched on exchanging QB's, Cutler went into a snit. He continued to whine and moan and play the you-hurt-my-feelings-so-I'm-ignoring-you game until the owner felt he had no choice but to divest himself of the problem child.

Compare this to L.T.'s reaction in a similar situation. Or Padres ace Jake Peavy's. Both were also the subject of much talk this winter. Peavy was actively shopped around baseball.

While the Broncos did okay considering the circumstances they were placed in, I wish that Cutler had gone to Detroit. In Chicago, he is the piece that was missing and I think he instantly makes the Bears the favorite in their division. I'd rather the hissy fit he pitched had resulted in his being dealt to a loser. But then, it seems cruel to wish Cutler on Lions fans, who already know all about oversize child-like egos. (see Millen, Matt)

Meanwhile, I won't hold my breath on Rivers getting apologies. Luckily, Philip is man enough not to require them to do his job.

Can The Offensive Blocking Improve?

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 03:59:49 +0000

"I just know we're not good enough. But I will say this, which I've said before: we need to have a solid, consistent running game. We have to."
- AJ Smith

Any smart NFL fan knows that a good offense starts at the line of scrimmage. Having addressed one piece to the Chargers running game with the retention of LT, now the focus turns to the 2nd, and possibly most important piece: the offensive line. Much maligned throughout the 2008 season due to a combination of health issues and just poor play, the offensive line is one of the top areas that need improvement for the Bolts.

That's strange position for the Chargers to be in since it was just a year prior that three Chargers linemen were named to the Pro Bowl, including Marcus McNeill and Kris Dielman (and Hardwick as an alternate). Add Mike Goff to the mix, and Jerome Clary starting his first full-season at right tackle, and it seemed as if the Bolts had a line that could mix it up with anyone. But once the season started, it was a totally different story.

Hardwick started last season with a foot injury that never fully healed, and couldn't even start until the 5th game of the season. McNeill injured his back in training camp and spent much of the season nursing the injury. Dielman was still a stud at the left-guard position, but Goff at right-guard was average, Clary was below average, and suddenly one of the Chargers strengths became a big liability. The running game was effected the most, as evidenced by LT's (or any other RB's) inability to find an opening in the line of scrimmage. When your former MVP-running back gets hit behind or at the line of scrimmage on almost every carry, you know you have problems blocking up front.

Now, heading into the 2009 season, things are looking better, but not by much. Yes, McNeill and Hardwick should be healthy and back to their Pro Bowl form, but as for the right-side of the line... just looking at the depth chart makes me ill. Penciled in (I hope lightly) to start at right guard is Kynan Forney, with Jerome Clary remaining at right tackle. You might remember that Forney backed-up Goff in 2008, while Clary spent most of last year impersonating a revolving door for a lot of opposing DE's.

A lot of close games could have been won last year with better blocking up front, and we're lucky that the Chargers' playoff hopes weren't squashed because of a lack of it. That's why a lot of mock drafts show the Chargers taking an offensive lineman with their 1st round draft pick this year. AJ has noticed, as have most of the NFL experts, that this team needs to get better up front to compete. And actually, a lot of teams seem to be thinking the same thing, and that has me a little worried. Check out one mock draft, found here on BoltHype.com- http://www.bolthype.com/2009/03/chargers-select-tackle-eben-britton-in.html . Four of the top offensive linemen were drafted ahead of the Chargers' number-16 pick, meaning our Bolts would be left with either a guy who might not be worth a mid-1st-round draft pick, or a guy who won't fill the OL need at all. If they choose the later, you can almost forget about finding a new right guard or tackle this season. And then we'll be settling for more of the same.

I thought I felt ill? I think I see Philip ralphing in a trash can in the corner...

Chargers and LT Avoid the Unthinkable

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 01:34:34 +0000

That sound you heard last week wasn't artillery from Camp Pendleton. It also wasn't the throng of daily commuters trapped on I-15 expressing the collective frustration that the driver in front of them was an idiot or that they could get there faster by walking.

That sound you heard was thousands of Charger fans from San Ysidro to San Onofre giving out a collective sigh of relief. LT and the Chargers had worked out an agreement on a restructured contract, keeping the iconic running back in San Diego.

To talk about Tomlinson on another team is to utter the unthinkable. Imagine George Brett hitting a gapper for Cleveland, Larry Bird hitting a jumper from the corner in a Suns jersey or Steve Yzerman cutting loose on a slapshot in a Rangers sweater. Unthinkable. Once in a rare instance, a player comes along that stands out and rises to the level of an icon. Number 21 is one such player. He is not only a Hall-of-Fame running back, he's a part of this community; the first person many people think of when one mentions San Diego.

Even more unthinkable was that the Chargers could be without a featured running back for the first time in eight seasons. Although Darren Sproles has been franchise-tagged, nothing stops him from holding out, and even if he does not hold out, it's doubtful he can be a featured back for 16 games. A possible Sproles holdout combined with LT's departure would have been enough to cause nightmares of Fazande-like proportions.

Talk of restructuring Tomlinson's contract was followed by rumors that the Chargers had an itchy trigger finger and were waiting for LT to give them a reason to send him packing. It appears that the opposite was true. The Chargers were actually doing everything to keep LT and LT wanted to do everything to stay in San Diego.

All that said, everyone has to be realistic. The last two seasons have been injury-plagued for Tomlinson and the Chargers minimized their costs in the new contract if Tomlinson can't stay healthy. They would be foolish not to look at a running back in the draft.

However, there is a renewed sense of optimism among fans here. In a departure from previous interviews, Tomlinson stated recently that he wanted to extend his career long enough to break Emmitt Smith's records. He has always worked hard to stay in shape and even though running backs tend to fade when they turn 30, several have been effective way past their supposed prime. Anyone who has followed the Bolts since the mid-'90s has to remember how effective Marcus Allen was when he played for Kansas City. Curtis Martin won the rushing title in 2004 at age 31, in his second-to-last season.

No one expects Tomlinson to have another season like he did in 2006, but having him back is huge. A St. Pattys day toast to his staying healthy and getting some blockers up front.

Who's Done? LT Is Back!

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 06:00:04 +0000

The Chargers and LaDainian Tomlinson announced his restructured contract, and it was as if there was never any doubt in anyone's mind: LT will remain a Charger, and all seems right in the world once again for Bolts fans.

That all sounds good- I mean, I was at the front of the "Keep LT" bandwagon. But funny, this isn't exactly what I expected. Under the terms of the new deal, LT's contract remains basically unchanged for the 2009 season, aside from some new bonus money that will lower his cap-number. That's alright for the face of the franchise, but surprising for a 30-year old RB who ended the last two seasons with injuries.

If the Chargers are happy with it, who am I to complain? All I know is that I expected a slightly deeper salary cut and a more performance-based contract. And with the potential savings, I was expecting to see some money thrown at a free-agent safety or D-lineman.

Just call me an arm-chair GM.

Again, given the alternatives, keeping LT was the right move. That's not blind optimism or fan loyalty, that's a fact- there wasn't a better RB to replace him with unless you burn a high draft-pick on one. With the holes we have to fill, you have to admit that keeping LT seems like a pretty good option.

The fan in me is pretty happy. LT belongs in the blue-and-gold, and if the Chargers can get their act together and win a championship, LT deserves to be a part of it. Just get him some blocking and look out!

As Expected, L.T. Remaining In Lightning Bolts

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 04:38:29 +0000

The San Diego Chargers have announced a renegotiated contract with LaDainian Tomlinson. This surprises plenty of people outside of the Legions of the Lightning Bolts and pretty much nobody within them.

Is anybody else getting more than a little tired of the east coast media inventing controversy about the guy who shares initials and impact with a NY Giant Hall of Famer but has infinitely more integrity and intelligence? First, they tried to say he was a whiner after the upset playoff loss at home. Then they questioned his toughness... which really is the stupidest thing out of all of it. News for you so-called reporters: the game in Pittsburgh this January was the first this guy has ever missed due to injury. Ever. You should have been able to look that one up, gang.

Now, they all said he was a disruption and was going to be traded or released. Seriously? Wow. Wait, I know. These are the same guys that predicted that the Nazis could never stand up to the Polish calvary, right?

LaDainian is going nowhere folks. So why all the drama about a new deal? Because we needed cap relief. That's all. And anyone who has spoken with L.T. for more than three sentences knows that the MVP award, his ranking second on the all-time rushing touchdowns list and his soon to come entry into the top ten in career rushing yardage mean next to nothing to him compared to his desire for a championship.

L.T.'s ego is not bruised about Sproles getting a payday. He wants a ring. And yes, he wants to win it here.

Not merely the greatest running back in Charger history, but one of the best ever period, L.T. wants to crown his legacy by bringing the first Super Bowl title to the ever-loyal Boltheads. Something Jumior and Dan and Bambi were not able to accomplish.

If you thought he was going to let hurt feelings over his paycheck get in the way of that goal, well... you just don't know LaDainian.

Breaking Down The Chargers- Part 3: WR

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 05:34:56 +0000

Continuing in our breakdown of the Chargers' roster, today we look at the wide receiver position. But before we get the WR's, I have to ask- "Can we get some closure on this whole LT thing?" I mean, is he coming back or not? I understand that to rush LT's decision would be a public relations nightmare, but come on already. Word is that LT has the Chargers final restructured contract offer- it's now on LT to decide if it's good enough.

Anyway...

The Chargers boast a young and deep wide receiver group that is full of potential. With former Pro Bowler Chris Chambers the veteran of the group at age 30 and the unquestioned leader, one could expect the rest of the group to continue to improve in the 2009 season.

Vincent Jackson had a career-year in 2008 and should continue to grow with QB Philip Rivers. Jackson has the speed to beat a lot of DB's and the physical skills to go up and wrestle a ball away from an opposing defender. I've been predicting a Pro Bowl year from Jackson each of the past 2-years; hopefully 2009 is the year in which he finally takes it the next level. It seems as though the only thing that could stop Jackson are his own dumb decisions. Early in 2009, Jackson was arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence. If convicted, it would be Jackson's 2nd offense and could result in a suspension similar to the 2-game suspension handed to KC's Jared Allen in 2007.

The duo of Chambers and Jackson have done a lot to improve the Chargers passing game over the past two-seasons, which River's stats can attest to. But even more importantly, the growth of Malcolm Floyd and Legedu Naanee give the Chargers reason to be optimistic about the future. Floyd has become a more consistent deep threat and has shown flashes of dominance, while Naanee provides the Chargers with a great utility man, whether it be at wide receiver, H-back, tight-end, or scout team QB.

Speaking of tight-ends, you can't discuss Chargers pass-receivers without giving credit to the perennial Pro Bowler, Antonio Gates. In all honesty, it's a crime if the Chargers WR's aren't splitting their paychecks with the super-stud tight-end. He's huge, he's skilled, and when healthy he's practically unstoppable. I believe that the Chargers receiving corp can finally be considered a strength for the team, but largely due to the talent of Antonio Gates.

I feel like I'm leaving someone out. There has to be someone else playing WR for the Chargers... maybe Kassim Osgood? No, he doesn't actually play WR for the Bolts. Oh I know, it's Davis-something. Oh yeah, Craig Davis, better known in these parts as "The Bust". It's unfortunate that the guy can't keep himself healthy, because I get the feeling that the Chargers are dying to use the guy. Chambers and Jackson are up for free agency soon, and Davis could be the guy to step into their shoes if left for greener pastures. But Davis can't stay healthy and may soon be a forgotten part of Chargers' draft history. Consider 2009 to be his make or break season, at least for the Bolts. Davis has the opportunity to become a consistent piece of the puzzle in San Diego in 2009 and beyond, but only if he can stay healthy and make it happen.

Hey, any news on LT?... How 'bout now?

LaDainian Deserves Better And So Do We

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:36:53 +0000

It's scary that when people look at our "needs" in the draft, RB is listed after safety and line help. We have Sproles and LT, name a better backfield than that? Yes, football is a business and the Bolts have many holes to fill. But there is no way that the team is better without LT. The only way that RB becomes a need is if we commit the ultimate sin and don't keep LaDainian. Acee is writing that "rumors swirl" about him going to New Orleans yet the only source is himself. Junior Seau is a douchebag off the field and unfortunately didn't do much after he left SD other than stop Michael Turner on 3rd and goal last January. You could argue that Rodney Harrison would not have been able to do what he does best, which is sit back and lay hits, in a Charger defense that couldn't cover. LT means more to this team and to its fans than both of those guys.
Yes, I am saying that I am willing to tolerate all those negative rushes. Maybe if some of those guys could block there might be less of them. It hurts to see this soap opera played out. I am sure LT wants to remain a Charger and I am sure that his saying so to the media is a negotiating ploy. It should not have gotten this far. AJ needs to sign him to a new deal and move on. We all need to move on. Yes, I would rather that the Chargers win a Super Bowl than keep LT. However, I don't see how those two things are mutally exclusive. Someone on the Chargers' official site said that their heart dropped every time they checked on LT's status on line. I feel the same way. HOW IS THIS IN ANY WAY GOOD FOR THIS TEAM?
Does Cro need to know that he is on notice? Yes. Do guys like Jackson need to know that conduct off the field will get him gone? Yes. How does LaDainian Tomlinson need to be reminded that no one is bigger than the team. Sproles needs to be kept as well, I don't disagree. But if there was ever a Charger that deserved to be treated differently, this is it. I know that I am not the only fan who feels this way. It's sickening that he and the fans need to be subjected to this shit. Why not drag Luis Castillo's name through the press to light a fire under his overpaid and undercheiving ass?
JIC,
RLW

Breaking Down The Chargers- Part 2: RB's

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 18:30:19 +0000

In part-two of our ongoing series focusing on the Chargers strengths and weaknesses we take a closer look at the running back position. I was hoping to have some finality to the LT contract renegotiations before writing this column, but as of today (2/27) we still don't know exactly how it's all going to pan-out. All we can do is speculate as to how it will end up, and that's anyone's guess at this point.

Those who have followed my columns over the years know how highly I regard LaDainian Tomlinson. He is a genuine guy, a player with a lot of passion for the game and a lot of heart. As running backs go, he will forever be listed among the best ever. Unfortunately, last season was probably the worst of LT's renowned career since his rookie season in 2001. His 1110 yards rushing was his lowest ever, and his 11 rushing TD's was a large drop from previous years. Now that single below average (for LT), injury-riddled season has led to some doubt that LT will return to the Chargers for the 2009 season.

There are basically two schools of thought regarding LT at this point in his career. The first sees LT as an aging, overused running back whose career is on the decline and will never recover. A knee injury in the 2008 playoffs, as well as multiple injuries in the 2008 season point towards the beginning of the end for LT's career. Knee, toe, and groin injuries are not exactly the building blocks for future successful seasons as a running back, so for all intents his career is over.

The second school of thought believes that LT is still one of the best-conditioned athletes in the NFL, and that the injuries he has sustained are mere flukes and not a signal for future injury. The more significant worry is improving the offensive line that regressed dramatically last year. We'll dig into the O-line in future columns, but basically two injured Pro-Bowl lineman with two sub-par linemen on the right side gave LT little chance to find a hole to run through.

As you decide which school of thought you subscribe to, I can't let you forget about Darren Sproles, who's franchise tag insures that the Chargers can at least control his destiny for the upcoming season. This fan favorite opened a lot of eyes in the playoff win against Indianapolis. He's a great change-up and a deadly weapon for any offensive coordinator. I'll admit that the franchise tag surprised me, but I believe that in the long run it was really just a negotiating tactic for the Chargers. Expect the Chargers to figure out a way to sign him to a multi-year deal or trade him. I just can't see them paying Sproles franchise-tag money for one season, especially for a guy whom the Chargers know can't be our 1^st string running back.

That brings us back to LT. The uncertainty surrounding the future Hall Of Famer has a lot of fans divided. Whether you believe he's past his prime or not, I simply ask: Are we better off with or without LT next season? I have to believe that we are better off with LT. On a team with some important holes to fill, I don't want to use a 1^st round pick on LT's replacement, and I don't believe that Sproles can carry the team on his diminutive shoulders.

That means you have to keep LT. You have to find a way to make it work. I'm all for renegotiating his contract since he's willing to discuss it but you can't let the guy walk. We have too many other positions to worry about to try to replace a guy who still had over 1000-yards rushing while playing 15½ games with an injury.

In this discussion of Chargers running backs you can't forget Michael Bennett, Jacob Hester, and Mike Tolbert. Bennett is a solid veteran backup who received surprisingly little work last season. He should be in the Chargers plans for 2009, and I'm hoping with a full training camp he will be given a little playing time in the regular season. Hester, as good of a guy as he is, was a waste of a 2009 2^nd round draft pick. Most everyone believes that AJ picked him too early in 2008 (3^rd round) and gave up too much to get him (see that 2009 2^nd round pick). That being said, he's a gamer who could turn into a Mike Alstott type of player. He lacks some of the raw athleticism of some of his peers, but he is the type of player who plays tough and can continue to improve with enough playing time. Expect him to start at fullback for the Chargers, with Tolbert filling the backup fullback role unless the Chargers find another guy they just can't pass up.

We're getting close to a final decision on LT, one way or the other, so give us your prediction ASAP.

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Will Free Agency Spark Charger Changes?

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 15:08:19 +0000

Free Agency is here and in the years since A.J. took over, that has been an interesting time. We've seen the man let players go that made us scream and retain people when it seemed impossible. (see Brees, Drew and Dielman, Kris)

Last year, we saw the departures of Drayton Florence, Lorenzo Neal and Michael Turner.Two of those were expected and while we missed Michael, we never really hoped to retain him.The surprising one to many of us and the one that arguably affected us the most was losing Lo-Neal. He went to Baltimore and played a huge role for them, while L.T. struggled to adjust to life without his lead battering ram.

This year, one would think much of the drama of previous years should have been tamed with the news that Darren Sproles had been tagged as a franchise player. But memories of Drew Brees leaving in favor of Philip Rivers has made all of us nervous about the future of LaDainian Tomlinson.

Personally, I'm less inclined to panic.

Remember that when the Breezer left, we already had Rivers here. A.J. had time to get to know him and obviously saw then what we see now. This is not the case with L.T. No one is going to look at that last playoff game and say that Sproles can replace him. Nor are the Bolts drafting in the top three with a sure-fire star available.

No, I don't think that L.T. is going anywhere.

This is not to say A.J. is not going to surprise us somewhere. It seems he always does surprise somehow. (see Schottenheimer, Marty.) I just don't think it is going to be involving LaDainian.