Chargers Juggle WR’s: Floyd Becomes the “Z”

Re-Charging Wideouts When the San Diego Chargers lost Vincent Jackson to the Buccaneers in free agency, the team quickly responded with the signing of Robert Meachem. With a history of losing high quality talent to opposing teams, the Chargers knee-jerk reaction of acquiring the former Saints WR got a pity laugh from me back in the off-season. Fast forward to week 11, Robert Meachem has been benched. The Chargers have learned Floyd is a far better fit for the “Z” position. In the Chargers offensive scheme, the “Z” wide receiver lines up next to Tight End Antonio Gates. It’s sort of like a bunch formation, which helps the QB recognize man coverage and creates a serious headache for defenders. “I’ve been moving around, but I’m comfortable playing that position. It’s becoming fluid now, but I understood ‘Z’ responsibilities after watching VJ and Meachem do it,” Floyd told Scott Bair of U-T San Diego. “With Antonio and I lining up next to each other, we put a strain on whatever side we’re on.” With Malcom Floyd moving to the “Z” position and Robert Meachem finding a comfy seat on the bench, Danario Alexander now moves up into a starting role and becomes a decent fantasy sleeper moving forward. Alexander has been a pleasant surprise after only joining the team a couple weeks back. His skill-set is undeniable and at 6’5 he becomes a another big target for Rivers. Danario Alexander is a talented athlete, unfortunately it’s been his health that has held him back. Alexander has undergone five separate surgeries on his knee since his sophomore year of college. Fantasy Outlook: To say this wide receiver juggling will be the ultimate answer that’ll fix all Chargers problems on offense, is laughable. Yet, finding a better fit for Malcom Floyd and benching Meachem could help the team with it’s rhythm. If Rivers has more options, than fantasy starters like Antonio Gates will see less double coverage. Danario Alexander is a recommended fantasy pick up. Malcom Floyd should see a spike in targets Gates may have more breathing room.