The Los Angeles Chargers have made sweeping changes this offseason. Their new general manager, Joe Hortiz, is a key piece of the new regime in LA.
In his introductory press conference, he set out to make it clear that things will be different for the Chargers franchise and their fans going forward.
The combo of Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh will actively work together to make sure that a great product is put onto the gridiron.
Hortiz was honest in his presser. He noted that the team will be built to be "rugged" moving forward. Additionally, Hortiz also discussed how decisions and moves will be made going forward. It's clear that he values Harbaugh's experience and team-building mantra as an important part of the franchise.
“I'll talk to Jim every morning during the season. 'Where can I help you get better.' He's going to say, 'Joe, I need an inside backer. We need to upgrade.' Well, that's what we're going to go out there and do. You do it through free agency. You do it pre-draft, post-draft in free agency. You do those summer signings, the cap casualties. Things to do to protect comp picks and then, really, just churn the bottom of the roster. Always looking to get better. Always looking to improve every week.”
-- New Chargers GM Joe Hortiz
Overall, the new Chargers GM sounded impressive.
Hortiz was confident but also understood that it will be a process to get LA to where they want to be. Specifically mentioning compensatory picks and cap casualties was a big positive as well. The Chargers are not in a great position regarding cap space, and he's aware of the hard work necessary to make it work for the future.
Regardless, there's a clear change in the front office for the Chargers from Tom Telesco and company. The start of the Hortiz/Harbaugh era has been exciting for the Chargers so far.
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