This is the first Chargers report of 2020, which means that it’s obviously very early and things are unsettled. At this stage, we’re not exactly sure who will be signed and who will be let go. Obviously, the situation will clarify in the coming months.

QB: One player who won’t return is QB Philip Rivers. While Rivers has seen a bit of a decline in production, he’s still arguably a top 12 quarterback who almost never misses a game. Without a doubt, Rivers will be hard to replace. There are many options including QB Tom Brady, QB Marcus Mariota or even rolling the dice with a player currently on the roster such as QB Tyrod Taylor. One thing is for sure, letting Rivers go was a risky move, as the Bolts will be trying to fill a huge new stadium in Los Angeles without enough fan support to fill a 20,000+ seat soccer stadium. Will the Chargers get it right? Probably not. While only time will tell, I’d expect a general decline in production at the position, although a quarterback with a decent arm and good running ability could do well given that the Chargers have quality receivers.

RB: As you may recall, RB Melvin Gordon held out much of 2019 and didn’t light the world on fire once he returned. Given the holdout, coupled with so-so production, a quality running back on the roster in Austin Ekeler, and the high price signing Gordon would cost the time, I suspect they will let him go. I believe that Ekeler can carry the load, although they’d need to fortify the position a bit assuming Gordon goes, which may or may not happen. It’s worth noting that Ekeler is also a free agent, but I believe they will work hard to re-sign him.

WR: In terms of wideouts, WR Keenan Allen and WR Mike Williams will return. However, I don’t expect to see them re-sign WR Travis Benjamin.

TE: While TE Hunter Henry has been injured often, the talent is definitely there. I would expect a strong push to re-sign the free agent Henry, who should have a decent year if he can remain healthy.

PK: There is a good chance that PK Michael Badgley returns as the Bolts kicker.

DEF: I believe the team will push to re-sign S Adrian Phillips and CB Michael Davis. Don’t be surprised if free agent DT Damion Square is not retained.

More to come next month about the NFL draft!

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