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Los Angeles Chargers July Scouting Report
Brad Willis
7/28/2018

Here in San Diego, we are believers in the Spanos Curse. Looks like that curse remains in play, as a number of Chargers have been injured before the season has even started, including TE Hunter Henry and now CB Jason Verrett, both of whom were placed on the Active/PUP list. Here’s a look at the Bolts, as things currently stand.

QB: While long in the tooth, QB Philip Rivers continues to play at a high level. He should have another solid season in 2018.

RB: As long as he remains healthy, RB Melvin Gordon will remain the workhorse and should see the lion’s share of end zone looks and scoring opportunities. In my view, there are no other Chargers running backs worthy of serious fantasy draft consideration at this time.

WR: I’m not sure if some of the Chargers are fragile due to Spanos Curse or just because. WR Keenan Allen is very good, but he has a history of injury. His slight build doesn’t help, and aggressive play sometimes works to his disadvantage. I expect to see a lot more of WR Mike Williams, who is probably worth a very late round draft choice. WR Tyrell Williams is also likely worth a late round draft consideration, as he tends to be underrated. Potential injuries elsewhere could bolster the value of Williams. WR Travis Benjamin is fast and can score, but he can have 20 points one week then zero for the next 2 weeks. He’s too hot or not for my taste.

TE: As mentioned, TE suffered a torn ACL in OTAs and may be done for the season. Certainly, you will not want to draft him and it does not appear that the team has any draft-worthy options at this time.

PK: Most likely PK Caleb Sturgis will be the Chargers kicker (yawn). Not a top option, but we’ll see if how he does if he stays healthy (missed last season). But then there’s that Spanos Curse…

DEF: Should be improved, although they need work stopping the run. Probably the best 2 outside pass rushers in DE Joey Bosa and DE Melvin Ingram. The loss of CB Jason Verrett hurts. I’d trade him when healthy. While I think he’s very good, I think his slight build and fragility makes him too much of a liability for the money he’s making. Expect S Dervin James to see plenty of playing time, but it will take time for him to fully develop as an NFL Veteran.

End.

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