Chargers seem like a 'perfect' fit for Bill Belichick

One NFC personnel executive told ESPN's Jeremy Fowler the Chargers are an ideal fit for the 71-year-old head coach.

"I'd be surprised if he goes to a place with a young quarterback—Carolina doesn't really work, and I don't think [owner David] Tepper wants to go that route anyway," the NFC executive said. "Take a team like the Chargers—they've got the QB, a defense with talent but have underachieved overall—that's perfect for him."

Chargers QB Justin Herbert is one of the most talented players in the league. In four seasons, the 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year has thrown 114 TDs, posted an above-average 95.7 passer rating and made a Pro Bowl. 

L.A. finished 24th in the league in points allowed (23.4). Don't attribute this to a lack of talent, though. Edge-rusher Khalil Mack was fourth in the league in sacks (17 in 17 games), and safety Derwin James Jr. tied for 10th in solo tackles (86 in 16 games). Both would thrive under a defensive mastermind like Belichick.

Fowler noted it's unclear whether Chargers owner Dean Spanos would cede power and let the future Hall of Famer have personnel control. However, he said he's willing to share personnel responsibilities in a Monday news conference.

Los Angeles must make a splash after a disappointing 5-12 season, hiring a candidate who can make it a bona fide Super Bowl contender. 

"He can have an Andy Reid-type impact on a new team, similar to when Reid went from Philadelphia to Kansas City," an AFC personnel official said, per Fowler. "Assuming he's still got the energy to do it, he's about as good of a coach as you can hire. Knows what it takes to win."