Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Plenty of linemen and pass-rushers to choose from


The NFL Scouting Combine is wrapping up, and information overload is kicking in for those of us going through somewhat of a withdrawal now that the football season was completed over three weeks ago. The NFL draft is two months away, so we're not even close to making final determinations on the players we want our favorite teams to select. One day I want the San Diego Chargers to select Ohio State offensive tackle Mike Adams in the first round; the next morning I want them to pick USC defensive end Nick Perry. And on it goes.

Thankfully, I was linked to a truly superb article written by the Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel's Bob McGinn. This is the best article I've read this draft season, as anonymous scouts provided their thoughts on several of the top prospects.

Thinking of the Chargers' needs, here are the players I focused on while reading McGinn's tremendously informative piece:

David DeCastro*, G, Stanford: 6-5, 316. Three-year starter. "He will start and play 12 years, make a couple Pro Bowls, that kind of guy," one scout said. "Everything you want in a guard, he's got it." Often compared to G Mike Iupati, the 49ers' first-round pick in 2010. "Iupati was more flexible, but they have the same demeanor," another scout said. "Try to grab you and kill you. He's stiff, smart and very tough. I would be hesitant taking him in the first because I don't think he can play tackle."

Peter Konz*, C, Wisconsin: 6-5, 314. Two scouts said he wasn't as good of a prospect as the Jets' Nick Mangold or the Steelers' Maurkice Pouncey. "He's a notch below those guys, but he's pretty good," one scout said. "He can pull and do all those things. He gun snaps. He's not a real physical guy. I shouldn't say that. He's good enough. But he doesn't blow people off the ball. He's probably more athletic than (Kevin) Zeitler. This kid can probably play guard, too." Three-year starter. Suffered a broken ankle late in the season and won't work out until pro day. "He moves OK, not great," another scout said. "He's not a first-round pick. He could probably start (immediately)." Added a third scout: "He's got good size, and that's rare right now. Good, solid player."

Melvin Ingram, DE-OLB, South Carolina: 6-1, 264. Played almost every D-line and LB position. "He's a little guy that's not explosive," one scout said. "I don't know where you play him. He's OK. He's not that good of an athlete." Played extensively off the bench for three seasons before starting as a senior. "If you line him up as an end in a 4-3 he's going to get blocked a lot," one scout said. "Outside backer in a 3-4 is probably the best starting point for him. He's got good temperament. He will bring something to your team from a toughness-intangible (standpoint). Is he an elite pass rusher? Absolutely not. Is he an elite run-down defender? Absolutely not. But he's a good football player who has to move around and play a bunch of different positions. A creative coach like (Bill) Belichick could do something with this guy." Finished with 21½ sacks.

Fletcher Cox*, DT, Mississippi State: 6-4, 298. Started two of his three seasons, finishing with 8½ sacks. "He's probably a pure 4-3 DT who can give you reps at DE," one scout said. "He's got the athletic ability to be a better pass rusher in the future than his numbers have indicated so far." Nicknamed "The Beast." Said another scout: "Guy can run all day. He's explosive, strong hands, good hips. He's country. He's hard. He looooves football."

Michael Brockers*, DT, Louisiana State: 6-7, 322. Played just two seasons before renouncing his final two years of eligibility. "Cox is a quicker-twitch guy than Brockers," one scout said. "Brockers can play 3-4 end or 4-3 DT. He's probably a little stouter against the run than Cox. Cox is probably a better athlete." Finished with two sacks. "He's a young kid and the light is just starting to go on," another scout said. "He hasn't even touched his ceiling yet. He's very powerful. He's a really good two-gapper. Occasionally, he's got a little bit of pass rush. Vonnie Holliday was a better athlete. This kid is bigger."

Dontari Poe*, NT, Memphis: 6-4, 346. Finished with five sacks in 35 games (30 starts). "He's probably the most athletic D-lineman in this draft over 300 pounds," one scout said. "He is phenomenally gifted with athleticism. He's not fat at all. Different level of competition. He has flashes of dominance. He's a well-spoken kid." Prototypical space-eater. "He has ability, OK?" another scout said. "I wouldn't say he can't move. You have to understand, that was a poor, poor team. That lad had very little help."

Devon Still, DT, Penn State: 6-5, 303. Built in imposing fashion a la Justin Harrell. "He has a lot of talent, but he's up and down," one scout said. "I don't understand that. I don't think it's lack of effort. He fits the 5-technique (DE in a 3-4), what you want them to look like." Two-year starter with 10½ sacks. Art Still, his uncle, was a Pro Bowl DE for Kansas City in the 1980s. "He's a flash player," another scout said. "But down in, down out, he's a developmental guy."

Dont'a Hightower*, ILB-OLB, Alabama: 6-2, 265. Played ILB in the Crimson Tide's base 3-4 but often put his hand down and rushed on passing downs. "Does he flash big-time plays?" one scout said. "Yeah, he does. Does he dominate like a guy 6-3, 265 should? Not on a consistent basis." Blew out his knee in Game 4 of 2009 and, according to some scouts, has yet to play back to his old form. "He's got the ability of the guy the Raiders took (Rolando McClain)," another scout said. "Some people don't know how tough he is. The knock on him is if he really inserts. But he is strong. I've seen him take his hand and just stand up guards." He tried to power rush tackles and ended up with five sacks. "He's capable of playing outside (linebacker)," a third scout said. "He can do anything you ask him to do."

Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama: 6-1½, 272. Projects as an OLB in a 3-4 or a strong-side LB in a 4-3. "The only reason Upshaw could go ahead of Ingram is because Upshaw actually played up and down and Ingram played all over the place," one scout said. "I don't think Upshaw was really outstanding in the Senior Bowl. I thought he was just ordinary. He's very physical, but he gets cut a lot. That's because he's stiff." Two-year starter with 16½ sacks. "(People) think he's Cornelius Bennett and he's not," another scout said. "He's a good, tough, nasty college football player that I think will get blocked a lot in the NFL." Scored just 9 on the 50-question Wonderlic intelligence test. "He's just a tough (expletive)," a third scout said. "He's really not a burn the edge guy. He is not fast. He's built like a fire hydrant. Maybe a 3-4 team will take him in the first."

Jonathan Martin*, T, Stanford: 6-5, 312. Comparable athletically to Matt Kalil and Riley Reiff, according to one scout. "Smart and competitive," the scout said. "Definitely has to get stronger. The guy from USC (Nick Perry) wore him out. That's what bothers me." Three-year starter at LT in a pro offense. "He's a project," another scout said. "He's big and has some short-area athletic ability. But he's not strong, not tough, doesn't give very good effort. He gets beat a lot."

Bobby Massie*, T, Mississippi: 6-6, 316. Surprised some teams by declaring a year early. "Nobody went to Ole Miss to watch Bobby Massie this year," one scout said. "Nobody knows who he is, but he's going to rise up the charts. He played right tackle there but he has good feet and could end up being a left tackle." Started 29 of 37 games. "Massie isn't as physical as Derek Sherrod, but he's a pretty good pass blocker," another scout said. "There's something missing. He's not a killer. That bothers me a little bit, but I do like his ability."

Mike Adams, T, Ohio State: 6-7, 323. Played just nine games his first two seasons because of injuries and then sat out first five games of 2011 on an NCAA suspension. "He has first-round ability, but I don't trust him," one scout said. "He's got talent and is immense, but he really isn't strong." Gargantuan hands (11 inches). "He played left tackle and can be a right tackle," another scout said. "He actually can play guard. He's got upside." Scouts have major reservations about his character.

Amini Silatolu, G, Midwestern State: 6-4, 311. Junior-college player who ended up having to play two years at Division II Midwestern State, located in Wichita Falls, Texas. "He's one of the most intriguing guys at the position," one scout said. "Dominating at his level. Talented. Big. Flexible." Compared by one scout to Larry Allen, who played at Sonoma State (Calif.) before building a Hall of Fame career for Dallas. "Yeah, but I wouldn't say he's as physical as Larry Allen was," the scout said. "Probably not the brightest bulb on the tree, but he's a pretty good player. Now he's blocking Division II guys, not Division I guys. And then he was supposed to play in the Senior Bowl but didn't." Quiet, withdrawn personality.

Cordy Glenn, G-T, Georgia: 6-5½, 345. Four-year starter. "He's not a left tackle," one scout said. "But he may be the first guard to go. If you watch him at guard, once guys get on him they don't get off. Inside, he does have feet." Doesn't always play hard. "I think he can play tackle, but there is no way I'd draft him in the first or second round," another scout said. "He has ability but he's got to watch his weight. He's got talent, but in the Senior Bowl I thought he looked bad at guard. He waist-bends."

Whitney Mercilus*, DE, Illinois: 6-4, 261. Didn't become a starter until 2011 and then broke out with 16 sacks. "He's a teaser," one scout said. "I don't know why he came out. He looks like a 4-3 DE to me. He doesn't do anything special." Trying to provide for his Haitian immigrant parents. "I think there's a degree of stiffness that will limit him," another scout said. "He's got the measurables and production. I just want to see him move like an athlete."

Nick Perry*, DE, Southern California: 6-3, 271. Played with his hand down for the Trojans unlike Clay Matthews, who almost always played standing up. Some scouts think he can play LB and others don't. "He's an undersized 4-3 DE," one scout said. "He's not as powerful as Trent Cole. He tries to finesse his way around guys." Two-year starter with 21½ sacks. "He wore out Stanford's junior left tackle (Jonathan Martin)," another scout said. "He and Clay Matthews didn't play the same way. He's tall and linear built. Yeah, he can rush the passer."

Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska: 6-4, 279. Three-year starter who was lost for the season in Game 5 last fall with a torn pectoral muscle. "All about football," one scout said. "War daddy. Tough guy. Good enough athlete to play 5-technique (3-4 DE). Strong hands. Plays with pride. He's got some stiffness, but he's got enough flexibility to squeeze and control and go laterally and make plays." Finished with 20 sacks. "He does have a lot of sacks but he got a lot of them when (Ndamukong) Suh was there," another scout said. "He does play hard, I'll tell you what. This guy chases the ball all the time."

Vinny Curry, DE-OLB, Marshall: 6-3, 266.Three-year starter with 26½ sacks. "Very, very talented football player," one scout said. "He may have a chance to stand up and be an outside linebacker. He's tough. The guy plays hard." Moved around rather well at the Senior Bowl when the coaches gave him a chance to play standing up.

Jerel Worthy*, DT, Michigan State: 6-2, 308. Often compared to DT Phil Taylor, who went 21st to Cleveland last year and had a successful rookie season. "He's got a ton of ability," one scout said. "He could be first round without any question. You just worry about guys that have ability and play lazy for most of their career. Because when they make money they're usually not very good. He's that kind of guy." Three-year starter with 12 sacks. "I didn't want to like the guy," another scout said. "But you know what? Guy's a pretty good player. He needs to be more consistent, but when he turns it up he can rush the passer."

Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson: 6-2, 314. Three-year starter with 4½ sacks. "Short and square," one scout said. "Fits the 4-3 as a DT. I thought he was OK, not great. Kind of a meat and potatoes interior player." Hails from a program that seems to worry a lot of personnel people. "Those Clemson guys don't translate to the NFL very good," another scout said. "They just don't play well in the NFL."

Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut: 6-4, 299. Probably best-suited to play 3-technique in a 4-3. Just doesn't seem stout enough to resist the run as a 3-4 DE. "He's more of a run-around guy," one scout said. "He's a better athlete than Brandon Thompson, but Thompson is stronger. He's got great ability, but he's soft. He can't fight through adversity. When (expletive) gets tough, he can't finish it out." Started 41 of 49 games, finishing with 11½ sacks. "He's such an underachiever," another scout said. "He doesn't play up to his ability, but it's there. I think he gets overdrafted because of it."

Alameda Ta'amu, NT, Washington: 6-2½, 348. Made himself a lot of money with a terrific week at the Senior Bowl. "You can't single-block him," one scout said. "He's athletic for his size." Started 42 of 50 games, finishing with 7½ sacks. "He's very much like Paul Soliai of the Dolphins," another scout said. "He is a true space-eater. He didn't play like that (the Senior Bowl) all year. He did have a good Senior Bowl, he really did. He's got a big (expletive) and great big thick thighs on him."

Andre Branch, OLB, Clemson: 6-4, 259. Displayed major improvement as a senior when he posted 10½ of his 17½ sacks. "He's another teaser," one scout said. "He's got ability. But he's a lot of fluff is what I think." Seems capable of playing in 3-4 or 4-3 schemes. "Clemson always (expletive) me up," another scout said. "I don't trust those guys there."


Hopefully, Chargers general manager A.J. Smith read this article and will keep monitoring the many talented linemen and pass-rushers in this draft class.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Burfict fails miserably at Combine



With Takeo Spikes in his mid-thirties, and 2011 second-round pick Jonas Mouton a total unknown, the San Diego Chargers could be looking to add an inside linebacker through the draft this April. One prospect who had been a favorite of Chargers fans was Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict. But after his poor performance during workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine today, Burfict would be lucky to picked in the third round.

Sports Illustrated's Tony Pauline wrote the following about Burfict:

The downward spiral continues for Burfict. He did not break 5 seconds in the 40, posted some of the worst vertical and broad jumps from the linebacker group and did not participate in position drills. Entering the season Burfict was considered a top 10 talent, but he's since fallen into the last day of the draft.

Given his perceived character concerns in addition to today's failure, Burfict may not be able to recover in time and become a premium draft pick. Two years ago Florida Gators linebacker Brandon Spikes ran in the five-second range in the 40-yard dash at the Combine, and he was still picked in the second round by the New England Patriots. Spikes' case was much different than Burfict's, however, as Patriots head coach Bill Belichick has an affinity for University of Florida players and often picks them too high in the draft. Burfict probably won't benefit from such a liking by any current head coach in the NFL.

On the other hand, Burfict falling to the fourth round or later could work out real well for the Chargers. In spite of his terrible outing today, football isn't played in shorts, and there are no 40-yard dashes during the 60-minute contests. Burfict has shown on numerous occasions he is a dynamic talent--and one of the fiercest tacklers on the gridiron--but lacks direction off the field and in preparation. Knowing all of that, the disaster he experienced today should not serve as a surprise to anyone. And with Takeo Spikes on the Chargers' roster, a great mentor is in place to show Burfict how to be a true professional. Moreover, as Brandon Spikes has shown in New England's defense, running slow in the 40-yard dash doesn't mean a linebacker can't succeed in the 3-4 scheme. Burfict should still be on the Chargers' draft board in April.

Contrarily, there were several other inside linebacker prospects who excelled in today's drills:

Mychal Kendricks, California: Melvin Ingram's workout with the defensive linemen was one for the ages, and Kendricks' showing with the linebackers wasn't far behind. The Pac-12 defensive player of the year led the linebackers in almost every testing category: His 40 time of 4.45 seconds was the fastest, his vertical jump of 39.5 inches the highest and broad jump of 10-feet, 7-inches the longest. Kendricks carried his momentum through the drill session, looking quick and explosive in every task. Kendricks' sub-6-foot height means he won't be a player for everyone, but a creative defensive coordinator will turn him into a productive pro.

Luke Kuechly, Boston College: Questions about Kuechly's speed and athleticism preceded the combine. He answered his critics in dynamic fashion, running both of his 40s in the mid 4.5-second range. His vertical jump of 38-inches and broad jump of 10-feet, 3-inches graded among the better marks from today's linebackers. He was smooth opening his hips in coverage drills and was able to get great depth on pass drops. Kuechly did not display a smooth change of direction and some will question his pursuit skills, but on the whole it was a great performance by the Boston College junior.

Demario Davis, Arkansas State: Davis looked like the complete package, testing well and appearing very athletic during position drills. He timed 4.58 in the 40, touched 38.5 inches in the vertical jump, 10-feet, four-inches in the broad jump and completed 32 reps on the bench. Later in the workout Davis showed good speed and quickness moving in every direction as well as solid ball skills in coverage drills. He's a bit of an unknown outside the scouting world, but don't be surprised if Davis pops into the late part of Round 3.

James-Michael Johnson, Nevada: Johnson turned in a complete workout today and was effective on all fronts. He started with 40 times in the mid 4.6-second range. His marks of 37 inches in the vertical jump and 10-feet, 4-inches in the broad jump were also impressive. During drills Johnson looked every bit as athletic as his testing numbers indicate and moved swiftly across the field. He appears to be a complete linebacker who can defend the run or pass in the NFL.

Zach Brown, North Carolina: Brown was quick in the 40, timing as fast as 4.45 seconds on a number of watches after tipping the scales at 244 pounds. He flashed ability during drills, but seemed stiff and off balance at times. Despite that, the size/speed ratio and his game film make Brown a Top 25 choice.

Ryan Baker, LSU: It's tough to claim a linebacker who struggled to run 4.85 seconds in the 40 improved his draft grade, but that's what Baker did. Forty aside, he looked athletic and efficient in drills and was often applauded by coaches on the field.


Brown and Kuechly are first-round talents, so they probably won't be heading to San Diego--considering the Chargers will most likely pick an offensive lineman or a pass-rusher with the 18th overall selection. The rest could be options in Round 2 or beyond, though.

Pass-rushing prospects don't disappoint at Combine


The defensive linemen participated in the NFL Scouting Combine's drills this morning, and many made their cases to be sure first-round picks in April's draft. This is good news for the San Diego Chargers, who are in desperate need of a pass-rushing outside linebacker. According to Sports Illustrated's Tony Pauline, the following pass-rushers looked the most impressive:

Melvin Ingram, South Carolina: Ingram continues to impress NFL teams, and his combine workout will push him further north on draft boards. He ran under 4.7 seconds on his first attempt in the 40, which included a quick 10-yard split of 1.65 seconds. Ingram was near flawless in position drills. He displayed great lateral movement skills, lost almost no momentum changing direction and was always on balance. His hands violently struck the bags in defensive line drills and Ingram looked incredibly athletic during linebacker drills. Don't be surprised if Ingram breaks into the draft's first 12 picks.

Nick Perry, USC: Perry turned in a workout for the ages. He was fast, posting 40 times in the low 4.6-second range at 271 pounds. He was strong, completing 35 repetitions on the bench press. Perry was also explosive and touched 38.5 inches in the vertical jump. He later looked incredibly athletic in all position drills. Perry solidified himself as a first round pick. The question is how early will he be selected during the first 32 choices?

Whitney Mercilus, Illinois: Mercilus was fast, timing his 40s between 4.65 and 4.68 seconds. He looked very athletic in drills, displaying a lot of quickness and the ability to swiftly move in any direction of the field. Mercilus showed a terrific burst of speed and the ability to turn it on in one quick step, which has scouts thinking he can line up at defensive end or stand up over tackle as a rush linebacker.

Andre Branch, Clemson: Branch averaged 4.7 seconds on his 40 times to start off the day, including one of the quickest 10-yard splits of 1.61 seconds. He practiced to that speed during drills, displaying the ability to immediately change direction and quickly move laterally in bag drills. Branch also looked athletic when run through a battery of linebacker drills. He got depth on pass drops and showed the ability to run fast laterally as well as in a straight line.


Ingram appears to be out of reach for the Chargers, as many seem to believe he'll be selected at least six spots ahead of the 18th overall pick San Diego possesses. Mercilus and Perry look as though they'll be there at #18, however, and Branch is considered a second-round prospect.

Between Mercilus and Perry, I favor Perry because he proved himself against some of the better pass-protectors in the country, most notably Stanford left tackle Jonathan Martin. Mercilus put up great numbers last season, but he's considered a one-year wonder, since he recorded just two sacks prior to the 2011 season. Sports Illustrated's Don Banks said Mercilus may turn out to be this draft class's Jason Pierre-Paul, who had little production in college yet has now already developed into a top-five pass-rusher in the NFL. I don't see it, as Pierre-Paul dominated his competition as the junior college level before transferring to South Florida in 2009. Pierre-Paul is also a rare athletic freak that Mercilus is nowhere close to being.

Meanwhile, Pauline points out that Marshall's Vinny Curry ran very slow in the 40-yard dash:

Curry, one of the best pass rushers in the nation the past two years, struggled to run faster than 5.0 seconds in the 40.

This is also good news for the Chargers, because if they select an offensive lineman in the first round, Curry could very well still be there for them in the second round or beyond.

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Many intriguing prospects at running back



The San Diego Chargers aren’t expected to re-sign Mike Tolbert this offseason, so general manager A.J. Smith is probably hoping to find a replacement to complement feature running back Ryan Mathews. During today’s running back drills at the Scouting Combine, several prospects showed they possess the skills to be intriguing options.
One of several reasons quarterback Philip Rivers struggled last season was due to the reality he no longer had Darren Sproles to dump the ball off to. Sproles was Rivers’ security blanket for five years, and the running back’s departure to New Orleans certainly hurt San Diego’s offense in 2011. The Chargers need a player to fill those shoes, as the screen pass to a player such as Sproles is a key component that head coach Norv Turner would love to reincorporate into his offense. Ultimately, Rivers and Turner would love to acquire a runner who could carry the ball eight-to-10 times and catch four-to-five passes per game. That would allow Mathews to remain fresh throughout the season and help quell the pressure on Rivers.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Tony Pauline, the Chargers could find such a player in this year’s draft. Pauline wrote the following about the backs he was impressed with today:
Chris Rainey/RB/Florida: Rainey continues to impress NFL decision-makers with his athleticism and the ability to handle several duties on the field. He was the fastest running back in attendance, posting a 40 time in the low 4.4-second area. Rainey later looked fluid, fast and very natural in all areas. He proceeded through the running drills with great balance and was exceptional catching the ball. Rainey displayed terrific quickness in all areas of the game. He is getting long looks as a skill player who can line up in the backfield, the slot or as a special teams player used to return punts and kicks.

David Wilson/RB/Virginia Tech: Wilson was another who had a fast start to the day, posting 40 times in the mid-4.4 second area. His speed was apparent in all the drills as Wilson showed a tremendous burst and the ability to turn it on in a single step. His pass-catching skills were the surprise of the afternoon. Wilson ran terrific routes, showed soft hands and did a great job catching the deep ball.

LaMichael James/RB/Oregon: Several stopwatches had James running 40 times as quick as 4.42 seconds. He looked faster in drills, displaying a great combination of speed, quickness and balance in all his drills. James easily cut back against the grain in bag drills and lost no momentum. He was complimented by coaches for his pass-catching skills later in the day.
Ronnie Hillman/RB/San Diego State: Hillman was another running back who displayed a wide variety of skills during his combine workout. He was fast in the 40 (4.45s), very quick in running back drills and looked natural catching the ball.

Isaiah Pead/RB/Cincinnati: Pead's running back skills were possibly the best of any ball carrier who took the field Sunday. He effortlessly cut against the grain during drills and never slowed down changing direction. Pead showed great balance and body control all afternoon then effectively caught the ball as the session ended.

Robert Turbin/RB/Utah State: Physically, Turbin was the most impressive- looking ball carrier from the running back group. His 222-pound frame is rock solid and Turbin swiftly moved it across the carpet of Lucas Oil Stadium, running 40 times under 4.5 seconds. Turbin showed the skills of a smaller runner, displaying a great deal of quickness and cutting skills throughout the entire workout.

Doug Martin/RB/Boise State: Martin continues to impress scouts and move North on draft boards. His 28 reps on the bench tied Robert Turbin for the most by any running back. Martin's 40 time of 4.53 seconds was faster than expected. Later in the day he looked polish in all the drills

San Diego isn’t likely to spend a first- or second-round pick on a running back this April, but there’s a strong possibility that one, two, or three of the aforementioned prospects will still be around in the third or fourth round. Should that happen, A.J. Smith could do a lot worse than finding Sproles’ replacement at that point in the draft.   

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Could Glenn be the answer at right tackle?

Two years ago San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith traded up in the first round to select Fresno State running back Ryan Mathews. Moving up that much to select a running back usually means the team thinks of him as a future superstar. Thus far, Mathews, while showing flashes, hasn’t lived up to the hype. He hasn’t shown he’s capable of being anywhere close to what LaDainian Tomlinson was for the Chargers from 2001 through 2007. To be fair, however, Mathews hasn’t been running behind a very good offensive line, to put it kindly. One has to wonder why Smith would make such a move for Mathews when San Diego's offensive line was a below-average unit.
If the Chargers want to return to being a championship-caliber team, they need to fix the offensive line and improve the running game. The last two seasons have shown that quarterback Philip Rivers can’t win games by himself. He needs a running game to complement the passing attack and make the offense more balanced and complete.
Two positions in need of desperate upgrades along San Diego’s offensive line are left guard and right tackle. After today’s workouts at the Scouting Combine, one prospect, Georgia offensive lineman Cordy Glenn, seems as though he could be a fit at either spot.
Measuring in at 6-5, 345 pounds, Glenn killed it on the bench press and 40-yard dash tests. With 36-inch arms, he put the 225-barbell up an impressive 31 times, and despite being one of the heaviest offensive linemen in Indianapolis, he posted an official time of 5.15 in the 40. A performance such as Glenn’s today, combined with productive college career—in which he started a total of 49 games at guard and tackle—could make him the ideal selection when the Chargers are on the clock at pick #18 in the first round. Given his size and athletic ability, some are warming up to the belief that Glenn will be an outstanding right tackle in the NFL.
Here’s what Doug Farrar of Yahoo! Sports Shutdown Corner wrote about Glenn today:
After a quality performance at the Senior Bowl, Glenn may have alleviated enough concerns to add his name to the top 20 overall as a draft prospect -- especially for teams that require a right tackle who can maul at the point of attack and still show enough agility to pass protect.
Right tackle would seem to be the best fit. As Glenn said, he's "just naturally a wide, girthy person," and I'd feel sorry for the defensive end who tried to take him head-on. "People try to bull rush me, but I'm pretty good at sitting it down. I just have a big, wide frame, so it's not a problem for me."
Recently, I wrote that Ohio State offensive tackle Mike Adams should be the Chargers’ first-round pick in April. I’m starting to like Glenn a lot, though, and wouldn’t mind seeing A.J. Smith grabbing the Georgia offensive lineman instead. If Glenn can’t cut in as a right tackle in the NFL, he could move inside and play guard. He sounds like a safe pick with great reward.

Cordy Glenn highlights I


Cordy Glenn Highlights II

Friday, February 24, 2012

Several defenders to watch at Combine

Coming off an 8-8 season will lead any team to believe it has to improve in a number of areas. Before the free agency period has begun, it’s clear the top priority for San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith is to shore up the offensive line. Still, there’s no question that the defensive side of the ball is in need of more than a few changes, as well, so Smith and his staff will undoubtedly focus on the defensive prospects during the Scouting Combine over the next week.
There is a wealth of information being provided by several Web sites right now, but one article that caught my attention was written by Doug Farrar of Yahoo! Sports Shutdown Corner, in which he lists 10 players to watch during the Combine week’s drills. Of the 10 players mentioned in the article, there are six I believe Smith should pay close attention to.


2. DE/DT Jared Crick, NebraskaThe question about any defensive lineman around Ndamukong Suh, and the ability of those linemen to get free without the big man as a point of focus for any offensive line, isn't just an NFL concern. Crick heard it when Suh was humiliating college blockers on the Nebraska line, and his drop in production since (affected by injuries as it has been) have some wondering if Crick can be a real table-setter. He's a great all-around player who puts some in mind of Pittsburgh's Aaron Smith, but teams will want to know that he's totally recovered from his pectoral injury, and that he can flash enough explosiveness to be more than a safe pick.



3. DT Alameda Ta'amu, Washington -- Ta'amu is known as a gentle giant to those who play with and interview the Huskies standout defender, but that lack of nastiness has shown up on the field at times. Historically, Ta'amu has been an inconsistent player despite armloads of talent, but when he puts it all together (as he did during Senior Bowl week, when he looked like Vince Wilfork Jr. at his best), he's got the potential to be a great run-stopping and penetrating tackle at the NFL level. He'll have to answer questions about his weight fluctuation, inconsistent dominance, and his role in a Washington defense that completely imploded in the Holiday Bowl.



4. DT Akiem Hicks, Regina -- Hicks chose LSU in 2009 after two years in junior college, but sat out over recruiting issues and chose to transfer to a Canadian college instead. His size will intrigue NFL scouts and personnel people, but his raw playing style leaves him with the dreaded "developmental" label. Unless ... he can show off in combine drills and show that the surprising athleticism for a 6-foot-5, 325-pound player is backed up by maturity in team interviews.



5. DE Whitney Mercilus, Illinois -- Mercilus led the nation in sacks and forced fumbles in 2011, but his one-year status as an elite edge rusher may raise some questions about just how much of what he did in that can transfer to the next level. It's an optimal opportunity for him to show that he's not only ready to be that player again, but that he's expanded on his skill set -- right now, he's  a very good burst edge rusher, but that doesn't always transfer to a more complete game, and teams will want to know about his strength against the run, and his tendency to get blocked out in power situations.



6. DE/OLB Jonathan Massaquoi, Troy -- As we wrote in his Shutdown 50 scouting report, Massaquoi has many of the tools required of a pass-rushing outside linebacker, which is most likely where he'll kick out to after his collegiate career as an end. He's got freakish speed off the snap, good basic agility in coverage, and an impressive sense to stop the run in space. The questions that remain -- gap integrity, cure strength and more advanced technique -- can be answered to a degree in combine drills, but the best part of this week for Massaquoi is that he'll be able to compete against the best prospects, and teams will get a "like against like" read on him. Based on his athleticism, that may be enough to get a few teams buying in.



7. ILB/OLB Vontaze Burfict, Arizona State -- With Burfict, the problems go beyond the penalties for which he is so very well-known -- many who have watched enough tape on the linebacker believe that he's more of a "highlight reel hitter" -- a player who will go for the kill shot at the expense of the wrap-up tackle. Former Sun Devils head coach Dennis Erickson once asked Ray Lewis to talk to Burfict about keeping the edge under control, but the results haven't shown up just yet. More than the on-field drills, Burfict will have to shine in one-on-one interviews with teams, especially when he's asked about his playing style and how his issues will improve.


Crick could be a defensive end in the Chargers’ defense, and there’s a possibility he’ll drop to the third round or later. That would be great value and provide nice depth to the position.
Hicks and Ta’amu sound as though they will play nose tackle in the NFL. San Diego could use a young nose tackle to develop, as there’s a strong possibility veteran Antonio Garay will not be retained, leaving Cam Thomas as the only one left for the spot.
Mercilus is a prospect who scares me a bit, what with his lack of consistent dominance throughout his college career. The last thing San Diego needs is to waste another first-round pick on a pass-rusher who won’t pan out in the NFL.
Massaquoi is a pass-rusher I’ve brought up in the past, and he seems to be gaining more attention as the draft season picks up. I’d love to see him in a Chargers uniform.
The same is true for Burfict, whom I feel would work very well in tandem with Donald Butler for many years to come. And very much like the Baltimore Ravens, who have Ray Lewis, San Diego possesses the luxury of a wise veteran, Takeo Spikes, who could serve as Burfict’s mentor and ease the transition to the NFL.
As I fantasize about it, perhaps very unrealistically, I would love to see the top four rounds go something like this:


1.      USC defensive end Nick Perry
2.      Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict
3.      Troy defensive end Jonathan Massaquoi
4.      Nebraska defensive tackle Jared Crick


Yes, that doesn’t help the offensive line, but the hope here is A.J. Smith will find a left guard and right tackle in free agency—along with bringing Jared Gaither back to play left tackle. Making those moves would enable Smith to acquire two intimidating pass-rushers in the draft, causing somewhat of an emulation of what the New York Giants have had going on in recent years.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Scouting Combine is here!

More than 300 prospects have just arrived to Indianapolis for the NFL Scouting Combine. Over the next week the 327 youngsters will partake in several enduring workouts and undergo intense mental acuity tests, both of which will play a factor in the prospects’ stocks rising or falling during what may be the most scrutinized mockery of a job interview.
A few days ago Sports Illustrated draft expert Tony Pauline rated his top 50 prospects before the workouts began. The following list includes players I feel the San Diego Chargers should seriously consider drafting in April.

7. Riley Reiff, T, Iowa* -- Reiff is a tremendous pass-blocking left tackle, though many scouts think he could shift to the right side. He possesses the footwork, body type and wherewithal to break into a starting lineup early into his rookie career.

10. Melvin Ingram, DL-OLB, South Carolina -- Few defensive prospects raised their game and draft stock as Ingram did last season. He's a playmaker who stands out in almost every aspect of the defense, with his ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage or out to the flanks.

11. David DeCastro, G, Stanford -- Andrew Luck's top blocker has been the dominant force on Stanford's offensive line the past two seasons. He's rightfully being compared to All Pro Steve Hutchinson and offers potential in a variety of NFL blocking schemes.

15. Courtney Upshaw, DE-OLB, Alabama -- Upshaw was the feared pass-rusher in Alabama's suffocating defense, and scouts expect much the same from him at the next level. The lingering question is which position will Upshaw play at the next level, outside linebacker or defensive end? Or both?

17. Mike Adams, T, Ohio State -- Adams returned to the Buckeye lineup after missing seven games last season due to suspension, then played inspired football. He's a terrific pass-protector at 330 pounds, with the strength to overwhelm defenders while run blocking.


20. Nick Perry, DE-OLB, USC* -- The Trojan underclassman is a pass-rushing terror who combines quickness and speed to harass opposing quarterbacks. He offers tremendous potential and can stand up over tackle or be used out of a three-point stance.

23. Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin* -- Konz is the best center prospect in the draft since Nick Mangold was selected in the first round in 2006. He's powerful at the point of attack as an in-line blocker and takes defenders from the action blocking on the move.

24. Don'ta Hightower, ILB, Alabama* -- A force in the middle of the Tide's defense, Hightower is a dominant run defender who controls the action in the box. He quickly makes waste of blockers and stop ball-carriers dead in their tracks. More of a two-down defender, Hightower can be a liability in coverage.

25. Mark Barron, S, Alabama -- Barron performed brilliantly as a senior at Alabama after a tough campaign in 2010. He's a dominant run defender who does not get enough credit for his coverage skills. Recent hernia surgery will set Barron back, but he'll quickly produce in the NFL once at full health.

28. Cordy Glenn, OL, Georgia -- Glenn has been an impressive offensive line prospect scouts have watched the past three years, and he continues to improve his game. He's a big-bodied lineman who excels as a pass-protector and run-blocker. The ability to line up at right tackle or offensive guard further enhances Glenn's attractiveness to NFL teams.
31. Vinny Curry, DE-OLB, Marshall -- Curry harassed quarterbacks for three years playing at Marshall and is one of the best pass-rushers in this draft. He's athletic, fluid and exceptionally quick. Whether Curry lines up at outside linebacker or defensive end all depends on how fast he runs at the Combine.

32. Whitney Mercilus, DE-OLB, Illinois* -- Mercilus is yet another pass-rusher who graces the top part of the draft. He came out of nowhere in 2011 and was omnipresent behind the line of scrimmage. He's another prospect who projects to multiple positions in the defense.

42. Andre Branch, DE-OLB, Clemson -- Branch is the next in a long line of athletic pass-rushers who have come from the Clemson program. He forcefully makes plays behind the line of scrimmage and easily chases the action in pursuit. Like many of his predecessors from the school, many question his every-down intensity.
50. Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State* -- Burfict, once considered a top-10 selection, has taken a big tumble down draft boards. He's a dominant defender at the top of his game, but Burfict was plagued with inconsistency, poor decision-making and a lack of maturity much of last season.

Some thoughts I had after reading over the list:
1.      Chargers general manager A.J. Smith might be wise to trade down in the first round and acquire an additional second-round pick. My logic behind such a move is there’s a possibility he could select an offensive lineman or pass-rusher in the latter part of the first round, and then use the two second-rounders on other positions of need. It would be nice to get Ohio State offensive tackle Mike Adams in the first and Clemson defensive end Andre Branch and Arizona State linebacker Vontaze Burfict in the second.

2.      It’s somewhat surprising to see South Carolina defensive end Melvin Ingram rated so high. I have concerns about him making a smooth transition to outside linebacker in a scheme such as San Diego’s, so I wouldn’t mind seeing him being selected in the top 15.

3.      It appears Iowa offensive tackle Riley Reiff is well out of the Chargers’ reach. His stock is rising so high he may even go in the top five. That’s too bad, as he’d be the ideal fit at right tackle for the Chargers.

4.      I’m beginning to really like USC defensive end Nick Perry a lot, as he seems to be an ascending talent with a very high upside. He’s one of the top guys I’ll be focusing on over the next few months. As of right now he appears to be a realistic option for San Diego’s 18th overall pick in the first round.  

Monday, February 20, 2012

Free agent news


We are 22 days away from the opening of free agency, and the San Diego Chargers will have plenty of options to choose from when that day arrives. There were a couple interesting developments I noticed while scanning the internet this morning.

1.      The Detroit Free Press reports Lions defensive end Cliff Avril wants a long-term contract worth about $12 million a year. Avril says he may hold out if the Lions slap the franchise tag on him.

"I don't want to be franchised," Avril said. "That's basically what I got last year. The tender was basically the same thing. I just want security and longevity."

Avril is 26 and finished with 11 sacks last season, a career high. He seems to be a player on the rise, something the Chargers could use to complement outside linebacker Shaun Phillips next season.

2.      According to the Sporting News, the New Orleans Saints still don’t appear to be close to reaching a long-term deal with quarterback Drew Brees, who’s scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent next month.

The following three paragraphs from the Sporting News article should get Chargers fans excited, as Saints offensive guard Carl Nicks is a player who would provide a huge upgrade on San Diego’s blocking unit:

If GM Mickey Loomis can't complete talks with Brees and his handlers in time, there is a possibility he could designate Brees the Saints' franchise player, Jeff Duncan notes on NOLA.com. That tag must be applied by 3 p.m. March 5, but it would give the sides the certainty they are believed to want while continuing negotiations on a long-term deal.
Part of the problem for the Saints might involve their long list of potential free agents. In addition to Brees, Loomis is looking at the possibility of losing top wideout Marques Colston, guard Carl Nicks, wideout Robert Meachem and starting cornerback Tracy Porter.

So the Saints likely have a math puzzle to answer. Do they keep Colston to retain a top playmaker for Brees? If so, does that necessarily eliminate Nicks unless he agrees to a hometown discount? Complicating that equation is the seven-year, $56.7 million contract they cut with Jahri Evans last year. Evans, like Nicks, is a guard—and SI.com suggests Nicks is better than Evans.


In the past, Chargers general manager A.J. Smith has been reluctant to spend big money in free agency, but these are two players he should be monitoring closely over the next month. And if Avril and Nicks happen to reach free agency, Smith should pursue each of them with great conviction.

Friday, February 17, 2012

Avril will not accept hometown discount in Detroit



Stating the obvious, which is refreshing when one considers most athletes aren’t bold enough to do so, the Detroit Free Press reports Lions defensive end Cliff Avril told SiriusXM NFL Radio’s Adam Schein and Rich Gannon that he won’t accept a hometown discount when he becomes an unrestricted free agent next month.

"I just want to be paid as one of the guys that's helping the team grow," Avril said. "I want to be there. We have a young D-line. But I know it's a business, and you only hit free agency once or twice in your career, so you definitely have to take advantage of it."

Asked whether he would give the Lions a hometown discount, Avril didn't hedge.

"There's no such thing as a hometown discount in the NFL," he said. "Once you can't play anymore, they're going to let you go, so you definitely have to strike gold when you can.

"That said, if they and another team present the same thing, I'd definitely stay with the Lions."

The article states Avril mentions he’s been told he’d be a good fit in the New England Patriots’ hybrid 3-4, 4-3 defensive scheme. While that’s true, I believe Avril would fit in just as nicely in the San Diego Chargers’ 3-4 defense now coordinated by John Pagano, a former linebackers coach.

Hopefully Chargers general manager A.J. Smith will make a serious run at Avril once free agency begins next month. Signing Avril to man the outside linebacker spot on the other side of Shaun Phillips will ease some of the pressure to reach for a pass-rusher in April’s draft.

Classic Videos

For this edition of the blog I’m posting a short clip from NFL Films' America’s Game: Missing Rings episode of the 1981 San Diego Chargers. The clip showcases Dan Fouts’ boldness and toughness as the field general, ultimately inspiring a nickname I will not repeat.

Dan Fouts MFIC

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Jones “not a big-time pass-rusher”


The Super Bowl hangover is in full effect, and more prospects’ names will be unearthed to quench the thirst football fans possess as we get closer to the Scouting Combine. While looking over the mock drafts a few days ago, I stumbled across the name Chandler Jones, a defensive end prospect from Syracuse who may become a pass-rushing linebacker in the NFL. A few mock drafts I looked at had him going in the second round.

At 6-5, 265 pounds Jones recorded 4.5 sacks last season. That may seem like an unimpressive stat, but he missed five games with a knee injury. His best game was against West Virginia, in which he finished with two sacks and six tackles, helping the Orange top the Mountaineers by a 49-23 score.

According to Wes Bunting of National Football Post, Jones plays too high and tight but he “possesses a tall, lean frame with a long set of arms and a lot of growth potential.”

Bunting finished the scouting report by stating the following:

“I love his size and length. But I worry about defensive linemen who play upright, lack a great get-off burst and struggle to change directions. I don’t see him as a big-time pass-rusher. But if he improves his pad level he could mature into a potential starting option."

My take: The San Diego Chargers need an impact pass-rusher. Jones doesn’t look like he’s the answer. At best, he appears to be a fourth-round pick.

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Top priority of the offseason: Fix the offensive line



Nowadays the inveterate, collective opinion among most football fans is the NFL is “quarterback driven”. With all the rules that have been altered to favor the passing game in recent years, the validity to such a statement is quite sturdy. Even so, what football at any level comes down to is the battle in the trenches. And with that in mind, the San Diego Chargers’ top priority this offseason should be to fix the offensive line.

Two years ago Chargers general manager A.J. Smith traded up to acquire running back Ryan Mathews in the first round of the 2010 draft. At times in his first two seasons Mathews has shown sparks of elite ability, but he needs better blocking in front of him to become the 1,500-yard rusher Smith and head coach Norv Turner expect him to be. Moreover, Mathews’ emergence as a top runner could ease some of the pressure on quarterback Philip Rivers, who could benefit from shorter distances on third-down plays.

As of right now there’s an overabundance of questions regarding San Diego’s situation along the offensive line. Left tackle Marcus McNeil and left guard Kris Dielman may retire. Center Nick Hardwick is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent next month. Jared Gaither, who stepped in at left tackle for an injured McNeill over the final five games, is also set up to be an unrestricted free agent. Right tackle Jeromey Clary signed a four-year contract last summer, but it’s probably safe to say he’s one of the worst players at his position in the entire NFL.

With a tremendous desire to see my Chargers win their first Vince Lombardi Trophy, here are what I believe should be the following steps Smith should take to make the offensive line a formidable unit:

1.      Sign Carl Nicks or Ben Grubbs to play left guard

In my humble opinion, Dielman should retire and move on with his life. The concussion he suffered during a loss to the New York Jets last October, along with the seizure that followed, should be enough for him to realize that there’s more to life than playing football.

Nicks would be the ideal replacement, as he’s arguably the best guard in the NFL right now. Signing him would be a great first step towards making the Chargers a tougher team physically. But since Nicks will be one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason, Grubbs is an excellent fallback option and would be a fixture on San Diego’s offensive line for many years to come. Either player would serve as the mauler the Chargers’ offensive line desperately needs on the inside.

2.      Re-sign Jared Gaither

After being picked up by San Diego late in the year, Gaither performed like an elite left tackle while protecting Rivers’ blind side. With McNeill unlikely to return to the Chargers, bringing Gaither back is crucial, as Rivers obviously needs to feel comfortable in the pocket.

There’s a concern that Gaither will become lazy if he receives a long-term contract. In that case, Smith would be wise to sign the massive pass-protector to a two- or three-year deal, since it’s unlikely Gaither will receive a long-term offer anywhere else.

3.      Release Jeromey Clary

Clary was given a four-year, $20 million contract last summer, and I still have no idea why. Anyone who has watched the Chargers over the last few years knows that Clary has been the weakest link on the offensive line, which leads to a mystery of why he hasn’t been replaced. With Smith on the hotseat, he can’t risk going into another season with Clary starting at right tackle. An upgrade at that spot is well overdue.

4.      Have Colin Baxter and Tyronne Green battle it out for the starting center spot

Hardwick will be 31 in September and has expressed some thoughts about possibly retiring soon. As far as I’m concerned, that shouldn’t inspire Smith to sign the center to a long-term contract.

The Chargers have two hungry players, Baxter and Green, who could battle it out for the starting center spot in training camp. Competition breeds success, and the winner earning the job will gain a ton of respect from his linemates. The loser, meanwhile, will still provide solid depth. It seems like a win-win scenario.

5.      Select Ohio State offensive tackle Mike Adams in the first round

As of right now it doesn’t appear San Diego will have a chance to pick any of the top three offensive tackles—USC’s Matt Kalil, Iowa’s Riley Reiff, Stanford’s Jonathan Martin—in April’s draft, unless Smith is able to move into the top 10 selections. The next best option, and an offensive tackle who isn’t that much of a dropoff from the top three, is Adams.

At 6-7, 320 pounds Adams possesses the skills to start immediately at right tackle for the Lightning Bolts, and he has the ability to switch over to the left side later in his career. After a dominant effort during Senior Bowl week, he has positioned himself to be selected around the time the Chargers are up in the first round.

Making these moves would lead to San Diego’s starting offensive line looking like this in September:

Left tackle: Jared Gaither   
Left guard: Carl Nicks or Ben Grubbs 
Center: Colin Baxter or Tyronne Green
Right guard: Louis Vasquez
Right tackle: Mike Adams

Under normal circumstances, bringing back just one starter from the offensive line that started the previous opening day would lead to disaster. The Chargers’ offensive line hasn’t been better than average for a while, though, so these types of moves are completely necessary.

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Lewis "lacks savvy to his game"



With the mock drafts rolling in rapidly now that the football season is officially over, many sites have the San Diego Chargers selecting a pass-rusher in the first or second round. One name that caught my attention this week is Ronnell Lewis, a defensive end/outside linebacker prospect from the University of Oklahoma.

It’s tough for me to understand why Lewis is projected to be picked in the second round. At 6-2, 244 pounds, he didn’t exactly produce much for the Sooners during his three seasons in Norman, as he finished his college career with 10 sacks and 20.5 tackles for losses. His best season was last fall, when he recorded 5.5 sacks and 13 tackles in the backfield. Those numbers pale in comparison to the stats compiled by the top pass-rushers in this draft class.

Still, according to National Football Post’s Wes Bunting, Lewis is a second-round talent capable of producing an impact on special teams and collecting six-to-eight sacks per season in the NFL.

“Overall, his game reminds me some of former 2010 second round pick Sergio Kindle and former 2011 third round pick Justin Houston,” Bunting writes in a scouting report on Lewis. “He’s an explosive kid with a ‘plus’ first step, generates a lot of natural explosion into contact and is a powerful striker. He’s got the ability to threaten the edge, fend off blocks through contact and shoot gaps well inside.

“However, I don’t see a ton of savvy to his game as a pass rusher yet. Lewis isn’t a real sudden kid when trying to slip blocks and counter off his speed rush and does look a bit tight when trying to work his way around the edge.”

Given Lewis’s lack of production, and considering the agathokakological scouting report written by Bunting, I believe the Chargers should focus on getting one of the other top pass-rushers in the first two rounds. Perhaps Lewis would be a nice pick in the fourth round; anytime earlier than that appears to be a reach.

Ronnell Lewis highlights

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Chargers likely to let Jackson go



After dancing around the reality that an ultimate decision eventually had to be made on Vincent Jackson’s future with the San Diego Chargers the last two offseasons, it appears the 6-5, 230-pound wide receiver could very well be on his way to another team once free agency begins in March. According to U-T San Diego's Kevin Acee, “the Chargers will almost certainly allow Jackson to hit the free agent market next month, and there is expected to be a line of teams ready to deal with him.”

In the article Acee mentions Chargers general manager A.J. Smith probably won’t be willing to make Jackson one of the highest-paid receivers in the NFL, since there will be plenty of other pass-catchers available to grab in free agency this offseason. The list of receivers scheduled to become unrestricted free agents next month includes New England’s Wes Welker, Kansas City’s Dwayne Bowe, Indianapolis’s Reggie Wayne, and New Orleans’ Marques Colston and Robert Meachem.

Excerpt from the article:

The Chargers moving on from Jackson has nothing to do with them not thinking he is an elite receiver and everything to do with them believing the extensive market will allow them to replenish with a less-expensive option (or options).

Acee states Bowe, Colston, and Welker will most likely be retained by their current teams with either long-term contracts or by being hit with franchise tags, but Meachem and Wayne will probably be available.

If this is the case, and Jackson is allowed to sign with another team, I can’t fault A.J. Smith’s logic. As good as Jackson has been since the 2007 season, he just turned 29 years old, so it’s a little late in the game for him to receive a long-term contract. On the other hand, it would be nice to see the Chargers franchise Jackson and trade him away to another team for draft picks. But perhaps letting Jackson hit the market will allow A.J. Smith to spend more money on a free agent pass-rusher such as Detroit’s Cliff Avril or, dare I say, Houston’s Mario Williams?

Either way, it seems as though it’s time to thank Jackson for his services, let him go, and move on.

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Acee: Castillo and McNeill could be sent packing


According to The San Diego Union-Tribune’s Kevin Acee, the San Diego Chargers are “likely to clear the books of $10 million by waiving left tackle Marcus McNeill,” and could save another $4.975 million by releasing defensive end Luis Castillo.

McNeill has to be cleared by a team doctor by the third day of the new league year, which begins March 13, or his 2012 salary is not guaranteed. McNeill is not expected to get a clean bill of health from the Chargers.

The team is also expected to release or seek to renegotiate the contract of defensive end Luis Castillo, who is due $4.975 million in 2012. Releasing Castillo, who played just 3½ quarters last season before suffering a fractured leg, would clear all but $1.025 million of Castillo’s $6 million cap number.

This is big news for Chargers fans, especially in the case of McNeill, whom some were hoping would shift over to start at right tackle in 2012. And this makes signing Jared Gaither, who started at left tackle for San Diego over the final five games of last season, imperative. Moreover, with current starting right tackle Jeromey Clary perhaps the worst player at his position in the NFL, the hope is Chargers general manager A.J. Smith will select an offensive tackle early in this April’s draft.

As for Castillo’s departure, it’s likely his spot will be filled with Vaughn Martin, who was picked in the fourth round of the 2009 draft. After Castillo suffered a season-ending injury during the first game of last year, Martin stepped in and recorded 47 tackles and a sack. One has to think the defensive end position will also be targeted in the draft to add depth to the roster.

Acee also mentions the Chargers will save some cash if they decide to let go of left guard Kris Dielman, who was considering retirement after suffering a scary concussion during a loss to the New York Jets on October 23, 2011. But Acee believes Dielman will return to the team if that’s what he desires.

…Dielman’s possible departure would free up another $5.5 million. That’s money the Chargers will happily pay to keep Dielman.

Inside linebacker Takeo Spikes’ contract is also pointed out in the article, which states $23 million could be sliced from the Chargers’ payroll in the coming months, and the team could have between $10 million and $33 million to spend in free agency, depending on which players get sent packing.

Although Acee’s article shows there are a lot of holes that will need to be filled this offseason, I must say it’s exciting to see changes look as though they will finally be made. As most Chargers fans know, this roster, the trenches in particular, is in desperate need of a revamping.  

Free agent updates


About a week-and-a-half ago I listed six soon-to-be unrestricted free agents I believe San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith should be targeting this offseason. Below are some updates on where four of those players stand.

1.      New Orleans Saints offensive guard Carl Nicks

Although he’s mentioned he’d like to stay in New Orleans, he knows there’s a good chance that won’t happen, since the Saints have to take care of other players about to become unrestricted free agents, most notably quarterback Drew Brees.

Excerpts from an article in the Times-Picayune:

New Orleans Saints guard Carl Nicks said he would love to stay in New Orleans next season, but he remains unsure whether the team will be able to re-sign him along with fellow free agents Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Tracy Porter and others. Nicks said it's “disheartening” that the Saints haven't made a strong push to re-sign him yet.

"They never talked to me at all about it really (last season), which I thought was kind of weird. But I talked to (General Manager Mickey Loomis) the last day before exit meetings, and he said they were going to do their best to try to keep me. So that's the gist of contract talks," said Nicks, who is expected to command a salary of more than $8 million per year as one of the NFL's marquee free agents.

"I would love to stay, but it's also a good feeling to be wanted. So hopefully a lot of teams want me, but I would love to stay," said Nicks.

When asked whether he believes the Saints will make a strong push to keep him, Nicks was hesitant.

"I hope so," he said. "Do I sincerely believe it? Uh ... they've still got to do Drew Brees' deal. And I think Marques is up and Tracy is up. I just don't see it, man, so I don't know. I would love to stay, but who knows."

The Saints could use their franchise tag on Nicks, especially if they are able to work out a deal with Brees before the franchise-tag deadline in early March. The franchise value for offensive linemen this season is expected to be set around $9.4 million for a one-year deal.

But Nicks said he would rather work out a long-term deal.

"I mean, if you're going to franchise me, you might as well give me a contract," Nicks said. "I figure if you're going to pay me that for one year, you might as well give me a five- or six-year deal that's probably not far from what I want."

My take: I think this a good sign for those of us who would like the Chargers to add Nicks this offseason, as it doesn’t appear he’ll be back with the Saints next year. I think A.J. Smith should do everything he can to bring Nicks to San Diego.

2.      Ben Grubbs

Grubbs, the second-best offensive lineman set to become a free agent, is in a similar situation to what Nicks is faced with. The Ravens would like to retain him, but they have other free agents to take care of, most notably quarterback Joe Flacco and stud running back Ray Rice.

            Excerpts from an article posted on the Baltimore Ravens official Web site:
Grubbs is set to become an unrestricted free agent this March. The Pro Bowler is expected to draw much interest, and possibly a large payday.

The Ravens are interested in bringing him back. But at what price?

“He understands and his agent understands the business, but I think we’re at a good spot with Ben,” Newsome said. “But, who will Ben keep us from getting and who will we have to let go in order to keep Ben? That’s going to be the balance.”

“Ben has two major factors that we like: He’s a really good player and he’s young,” Newsome said. “So, as we start to put together the 53-man squad, going into 2012, we will factor those things in.”

The Ravens are also preparing to give two other young stars, quarterback Joe Flacco and running back Ray Rice, new contracts. That affects whether they will have enough salary cap room for Grubbs.

Newsome was asked how realistic it is that he could lock up all three of them.

“I think to answer that, I would have to say then, ‘Who would we let go to keep those three guys?’” Newsome said. “Because if we decide to let four or five players go, waive them, terminate them, then we could keep those three very easily. But, the key is balancing – keeping the good players that we’ve got and trying to re-sign those guys.”

Another option would be to restructure a lot of contracts to make room for all three players, but “then we’ll end up paying for it three years from now,” Owner Steve Bisciotti said. The consistency-minded Ravens don’t like mortgaging the future.

In considering replacing Grubbs with an option already on the roster, 2011 third-round pick Jah Reid’s name was raised. Reid, who was drafted as a tackle, was active for all 16 games and played some guard.

“We’ve had Jah now for a year, and now we’ve got him for a full offseason and OTAs and stuff like that, so John and I are not afraid,” Newsome said. “(Head coach) John (Harbaugh), at the end of the day, is the guy that has to make that decision, and he is not afraid to play young guys when other guys walk out the door.”

My take: It looks as though Grubbs will most likely be playing somewhere else next season. Hopefully, if A.J. Smith can’t get Nicks, Grubbs will join the Chargers and play left guard for many years to come.
3.      Oakland Raiders safety Tyvon Branch

There’s nothing new regarding where Branch stands with the Raiders, but this post in the AFC West blog on ESPN’s Web site says the strong safety played 99.13 percent of Oakland’s defensive snaps in 2011.

My take: After reading this, can Branch be any more appealing as a possible addition to the Chargers’ secondary? Can A.J. Smith please take this guy from Oakland the minute free agency begins?
4.      Detroit Lions defensive end Cliff Avril

Avril has let it be known he doesn’t want to be slapped with the franchise tag. He wants to stay in Detroit but desires a long-term deal from general manager Martin Mayhew. Yet, with superstar wide receiver Calvin Johnson about to enter the last year of his contract, the Lions would be wise to offer him an extension, which could make Avril’s situation quite tricky.

Excerpts from an article in the Detroit Free Press:

“I definitely don’t want to be franchised,” Avril said today, during a visit to the Super Bowl. “I mean, I’ve been in Detroit for four years, and I wouldn’t mind being there for another couple more years or whatnot. The franchise tag kind of makes it a yearly thing, and you want security. You want to know you’re going to be there for a couple years so your family can get comfortable.”

Mayhew said last month he doesn’t have any plans to use the tag but added, “You never know what might happen.”

“They quote-unquote don’t want to use it anyway, so we’ll see,” Avril said.

As for where talks stand on a new deal, Avril said things are “still in the air.” The 25-year-old is coming off a breakout season when he led the Lions with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles and didn't miss a game for the first time in his career.

“Kind of getting positive vibes as far as for me being there again next year,” Avril said. “Hopefully, we can meet in the middle and make it happen, because I’d definitely love to be there.”
Columnist Chris McCosky of The Detroit News believes Avril is irreplaceable at this point in his career.

Avril, given the importance of pass rushing defensive linemen in the Lions' scheme, cannot be replaced. Willie Young and Lawrence Jackson are certainly capable defensive ends, but Avril is on the brink of stardom.
My take: I wholeheartedly agree with McCosky. I hope the Lions see it differently, however, and A.J. Smith steals Avril from Detroit.

Meanwhile, there has been nothing new reported on Arizona Cardinals defensive end Calais Campbell. The Cardinals are expected to re-sign or slap the franchise tag on Campbell before the free agent period begins—and, frankly, they would be dumb to let him test the market.