The Chargers had one of the worst defenses in the league last year and knew they needed to make some changes in order to compete for a Super Bowl. Joey Bosa and Derwin James are two All-Pro players, but they need help to show their full potential. The Chargers have improved their defensive line, linebackers. Therefore, they have a great opportunity at bringing home an AFC West title and maybe even a Super Bowl.
What the Chargers Defensive Line Will Look Like
The starting defensive line for the Chargers will look like:
- Left Defensive End – Jerry Tillery
- Nose Tackle – Austin Johnson
- Right Defensive End – Sebastian Joseph-Day
The Defensive Line might be considered the “weak spot” for the Chargers. Jerry Tillery has had a couple good seasons with Los Angeles and I look at him as leading the front line for the Chargers.
What the Chargers Linebacker Core Will Look Like
The starting linebackers for the Chargers will look like:
- Weak Side Linebacker – Joey Bosa
- Left Inside Linebacker – Kenneth Murray Jr.
- Right Inside Linebacker – Drue Tranquill
- Strong Side Linebacker – Khalil Mack
This is going to be the key part of the Chargers if they want to win games. Having Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack on opposite sides of the line is going to make the quarterback have to get rid of the ball very quickly. Kenneth Murray has the potential to be a great linebacker in the NFL but failed to live up to his potential in the first season. Look for Murray to have a big second year and really gel together with Bosa and Mack and become one of the best linebacker cores in the NFL.
What the Chargers Secondary Will Look Like
The starting secondary for the Chargers will look like:
- Left Cornerback – Asante Samuel Jr.
- Strong Safety – Derwin James Jr.
- Free Safety – Nasir Adderley
- Right Cornerback – J.C. Jackson
The Chargers secondary is one of the most electric in the NFL. Derwin James has proven to be one of the best safeties in the league after only having two full seasons under his belt. Asante Samuel Jr. had a great first year with the Chargers and will continue to get better with experience. J.C. Jackson was the best cornerback in the market this offseason and the Chargers were able to sign him to a five year deal. Look for Derwin James to have a rookie like season this year with more freedom to roam in the secondary.
Where to Expect the Chargers Defense to be Ranked
The Chargers have added some significant talent to their defense and I expect them to have a standout year. The AFC is going to be a big test with Russell Wilson and Davante Adams joining and I believe the Chargers have what it takes to be a top five defense in the NFL. If everyone stays healthy, which hasn’t been the best of luck for the Chargers, I believe they can hang with any offense in the league.
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