20-Nov-2009 17:19pm
 
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San Diego Chargers
Quarterbacks: Running Backs:
Wide Receivers: Tight Ends:
Defense: Kickers:
OFFSEASON GAINS AND LOSSES

Just like most offseasons with the Chargers, it was kind of quiet. We wouldn't consider any free agent moves to be too exciting either way - lost or gained. The most news came in the draft. The Chargers added a defensive line to improve their pass rush, taking Larry English in the first round. San Diego also looked to bolster their offensive line, taking Louis Vasquez and Tyronne Green in the early rounds of the draft. Both players could be a big additions to an offensive line that struggled at times last season.

The biggest loss for the Chargers came at offensive guard (Mike Goff) and defensive end (Igor Olshansky), but San Diego used the draft to address these losses. Both Goff and Olshansky should be replaced with younger players.

STRENGTHS

The Chargers rushing attack remains a strength. LaDainian Tomlinson is getting older, but remains productive and a top starter as long as he is healthy. Darren Sproles was a surprise last season. He has some huge games near the end of the season, proving he can be a solid starter if pressed into action. Both Tomlinson and Sproles are big-play threats at running back. The Chargers also used the draft to add another back to the mix, taking Gartrell Johnson, who gives the team a little different look. Johnson is more of an inside runner and power back.

The Chargers not only have a good rushing game, but their passing attack proved to be very potent last season. Philip Rivers had a breakout season, throwing for 4,000 yards for the first time in his career. Vincent Jackson had a breakout year at receiver, becoming their No. 1 target. Chris Chambers remains a solid starter on the other side and Malcolm Floyd is another big-time deep threat for the Chargers. And we can't forget tight end Antonio Gates, who remains one of the top pass-catching tight ends in the game. The Chargers have a lot of top options in the passing game and should continue to have success.

WEAKNESSES

San Diego was really bad against the pass last season, ranking 31st overall. They allowed nearly 250 yards per game. Antonio Cromartie is their top cornerback and a great playmaker, but gave up some big plays last season. He needs to take a few less chances this season and do a better job in coverage. And after Cromartie, the Chargers have a lot of guys that are just average. They need some of these younger cornerbacks to step up and make plays. Otherwise, the secondary will be in store for another long season.

OUTLOOK

Another very good AFC team. The Chargers are talented enough to make it to the Super Bowl. They'll challenge for the division and earn a playoff spot. They need Gates and linebacker Shawne Merriman to be healthy, though, if they hope to have a special season.

TEAM NOTES
Nov 18, 08:13 PM San Diego Chargers P Mike Scifres (groin) was limited in practice Wednesday, Nov. 18.
Nov 18, 08:13 PM San Diego Chargers LB Tim Dobbins (knee) practiced in full Wednesday, Nov. 18.
Nov 17, 10:03 AM ESPN.com reports reality TV personality Tila Tequila has filed a lawsuit against San Diego Chargers LB Shawne Merriman over assault accusations from a September incident for which Merriman was not charged with a crime. Tequila is seeking damages for assault, battery, false imprisonment and emotional distress, according to TMZ.com. Tequila's lawyer is citing photos showing bruises Tequila allegedly suffered from the incident at Merriman's home.
Nov 15, 03:33 PM The San Diego Chargers have declared CB Brandon Hughes, QB Charlie Whitehurst, WR Craig Davis, LB Jyles Tucker, C Nick Hardwick, LB Tim Dobbins, DL Tyronne Green, DL Vaughn Martin inactive for Week 10.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (hip) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is probable for Week 10. He is expected to play.

Fantasy Impact: Looks like his hip issue isn't too big of a deal. He should be fine to play this week.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is probable for Week 10. He is expected to play.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers DL Travis Johnson (groin) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is probable for Week 10. He is expected to play.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers LB Kevin Burnett (ankle) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is probable for Week 10. He is expected to play.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers LB Shaun Phillips (ankle) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is questionable for Week 10. He is expected to play.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers P Mike Scifres (groin) practiced in full Friday, Nov. 13, and is probable for Week 10. He is expected to play.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers LB Shawne Merriman (foot) did not practice Friday, Nov. 13, and is questionable for Week 10. He might play, but will spend more time on the sidelines than usual.
Nov 13, 06:53 PM San Diego Chargers LB Tim Dobbins (knee) did not practice Friday, Nov. 13, and is doubtful for Week 10. He is not expected to play.
Nov 12, 10:23 PM San Diego Chargers RB LaDainian Tomlinson (hip) practiced in full Thursday, Nov. 12, and he will play Week 10.

Fantasy Impact: We still don't expect much from Tomlinson in a game against the Eagles.
Nov 12, 10:23 PM San Diego Chargers TE Antonio Gates (foot) practiced in full Thursday, Nov. 12, and he will play Week 10.
Nov 12, 10:23 PM San Diego Chargers LB Kevin Burnett (ankle) and DE Travis Johnson (groin) practiced in full Thursday, Nov. 12. Both are expected to play Week 10.
Nov 12, 10:23 PM San Diego Chargers LB Tim Dobbins (knee) was limited in practice Thursday, Nov. 12, and he appears questionable for Week 10.

Offseason Keys

Additions:
Kevin Burnett, LB. 

Losses:
Scott Chandler, TE; Mike Goff, G; Igor Olshansky, DE. 

2009 Draft Class

RoundPickPlayerPos
 # 1  16 Larry EnglishLB
 # 3  14 Louis VasquezOL
 # 4  13 Vaughn MartinDL
 # 4  33 Tyronne GreenOL
 # 5  12 Brandon HughesDB
 # 6  16 Kevin EllisonDB
 # 7  15 Demetrius ByrdWR

2009 Schedule

WeekDateTimeOpponent
1     Sep 14 10:15PM      at Oakland
2     Sep 20 4:15PM      Baltimore
3     Sep 27 4:15PM      Miami
4     Oct 4 8:20PM      at Pittsburgh
-- Week 5 Bye --
6     Oct 19 8:30PM      Denver
7     Oct 25 1:00PM      at Kansas City
8     Nov 1 4:05PM      Oakland
9     Nov 8 4:15PM      at New York Giants
10     Nov 15 4:15PM      Philadelphia
11     Nov 22 4:15PM      at Denver
12     Nov 29 4:05PM      Kansas City
13     Dec 6 4:05PM      at Cleveland
14     Dec 13 4:15PM      at Dallas
15     Dec 20 4:05PM      Cincinnati
16     Dec 25 7:30PM      at Tennessee
17     Jan 3 4:15PM      Washington