Chargers interested in Michael Crabtree
By Ernie Padaon
The San Diego Chargers are on a hunt for a new wide receiver and Michael Crabtree seems to be a target.
The San Diego Chargers are on a hunt for a new wide receiver to add to the roster after the loss of Eddie Royal in free agency. The team was looking toward Andre Johnson to be that guy, but he decided to sign with the Indianapolis Colts. Instead, the team has had to look at different veteran players in free agency.
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One player that the Chargers are interested in is San Francisco 49ers WR Michael Crabtree, per John Keim. Crabtree is a free agent and was believed to be one of the top receivers entering in free agency, but he has not seen a lot of interest at this point. The Chargers are one of the teams are interested in adding him onto the roster.
In his 6 seasons in the league, he only has one 1000+ yard season. He will not be a burner, but he is a tough receiver that can make an impact with Philip Rivers throwing him the football. Crabtree’s best season came when Colin Kaepernick came on to take the starting role away from Alex Smith. Having a quarterback that was willing to throw the ball out to him really helped him blossom. He had an injury the following season that kept him out for most of the season and then he didn’t have the best season last year.
Crabtree’s skill set is very similar to Keenan Allen. They don’t have the wheels to burn through the secondary, but they rely on route running to create space and can make some things happen after the catch. Would it hurt to have two of the same type of receivers on the roster?
If Crabtree were added to the offense, he or Keenan Allen could step into the slot role. Both will likely get the opportunities to take on that spot during the year. Malcom Floyd will be counted on to stretch the field.
The team is running out of available options in free agency if they are looking to fill that hole in that manner. Crabtree is the best receiver available in free agency at the moment. The team did bring in Stevie Johnson for a visit on Friday as well. We will see what direction the team decides to go.
Michael Crabtree was selected with the 10th pick in the 2009 NFL draft out of Texas Tech. He will be in his 7th season in the league.
What do you all think of the possibilities of Crabtree?
Should the Chargers go after Michael Crabtree?
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