Chargers Key Special Teamer Claimed By AFC Rival

Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?

In order to create roster space for the return of veteran defenders OLB Khalil Mack and LB Denzel Perryman from IR, the Chargers opted to waive OLB Caleb Murphy from the active roster right before gameday.

Given that Murphy had not accrued four NFL seasons, he was placed on waivers, and subject to claims by any team in the league willing to put one in. Unfortunately, that ended up being the New England Patriots.

The former D-II player out of Ferris State, who set the NCAA record for sacks in a season with 25.5, was a core special teamer on all four phases of Ryan Ficken’s special teams unit, and a key rotational pass rusher on defense.

In 6 games for the Chargers, he played 129 snaps ond defense (34%), 118 snaps on special teams (76%), and recorded 12 total tackles, 0.5 sack and 1 QB hit.

Familiarity With Patriots Staff

Before joining LA, Murphy spent his first two seaons with the Tennessee Titans where current Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel held the same role.

Knowing that Murphy is heading into a great situation, with a coaching staff that is familiar with him and knows how to maximize his skill sets, is great and will be great for his career.

However, you can’t help but wonder if the Chargers made the right move here, parting ways with a key contributor of their team virtually for free.