The Los Angeles Chargers have plenty of spots to fill in their defensive secondary and will have to do so on a budget. Who can they find in free agency to pair with Asante Samuel Jr?
Los Angeles Chargers Free Agent Targets: Cornerbacks
Stephon Gilmore
Despite his age (he will be 34 when the season starts), Stephon Gilmore proved to still be a more than competent cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys. And quarterbacks weren’t afraid to test the veteran in his 12th season, he was targeted 95 times. But he allowed a completion percentage of just 56.8. He missed just four tackles and had a career-high in run stops, 17.
Gilmore played in all 17 games last season and played on 1055 snaps, tied for third-most in his career. He isn’t a long-term option, but along with being a good starter, he will also serve as a good mentor for Samuel Jr. and any corners the Chargers pick up in the draft.
PROJECTED CONTRACT: 2 yrs./$16 million
Los Angeles Chargers Draft: 5 Strong Cornerbacks To Watch At NFL Draft
Chidobe Awuzie
Like Gilmore, Chidobe Awuzie injects veteran experience into a young cornerback group. He will be 29 and enters his 8th season. He hasn’t bounced back completely from an ACL tear in 2022 but is still a plus player. He will add another layer of physicality to the defense and is a great run defender.
The free-agent cornerback market is scant this year, which may drive up Awuzie’s cost. But teams may be skeptical of his age and injury history. If that’s the case the Los Angeles Chargers could snag him for a one-year prove-it deal.
PROJECTED CONTRACT: 1 yr./ $8 million
Adoree’ Jackson
Adoree’ Jackson had a down year last season in large part due to the New York Giants’ anemic pass rush. He demonstrates genuine versatility, capable of playing both inside and outside positions, the Chargers need to find answers at nickel corner as well.
He has a talent for intercepting passes, often diving to break up throws, especially when tempting quarterbacks into risky passes within his coverage zone along with solid lateral agility to aid in run defense.
Because of his injury history, Jackson won’t be a priority free agent. This means the Chargers can get him on a budget.
PROJECTED CONTRACT: 2 yr./ $10 million
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