Los Angeles Chargers Most Likely to Make Pro Bowl

Casey Hayward and Melvin Gordon were the only representatives of the Los Angeles Chargers at last year’s Pro Bowl. They have plenty of talented players who have either made the Pro Bowl or came very close. What about this year? Who is in line to make their first Pro Bowl, or perhaps their seventh?

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Philip Rivers, QB

Philip has already made six Pro Bowls throughout his long career. While he is arguably in the top seven to ten quarterbacks in the NFL, he doesn’t get as much recognition as other names. Considering he has to work against Brady, Big Ben, Derek Carr and other star AFC QBs, his name can sometimes get lost in the mix. This year, however, with an improved offensive line and the most weapons he’s ever had, he should have a good shot at adding trip number seven.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 75%

Melvin Gordon, RB

Melvin Gordon showed that he would rather have a sophomore surge than a slump. Coming three yards shy of hitting the 1,000-yard mark, Gordon was able to make the Pro Bowl last year as an alternate. With more beef in front of him blocking and known run-lover Anthony Lynn as coach, Gordon should easily hit 1,000 yards and maybe a lot more.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 85%

Keenan Allen, WR

For being so talented, if Allen had ever been able to stay healthy, he would’ve likely been on his way to his third straight Pro Bowl. Now, the oft-injured star is just trying to stay healthy for a full 16-game slate. If he can and continues his strong connection with Rivers, he could finally get the honor, although all the other weapons could make his numbers not as impressive.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 40%

Tyrell Williams, WR

Say Keenan can’t stay healthy or regain his form from the last 9 games he played. Say Tyrell makes as much a leap from year two to year three as he did from year one. He had over 1,000 yards receiving and seven touchdowns, which is an impressive line by itself. If he improves his production and becomes the star of this Chargers’ receiving corps, he could be a dark horse Pro Bowl candidate.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 20%

Hunter Henry, TE

Henry had eight touchdowns a year ago and will look to step into the starting role for Antonio Gates. Rivers has always loved his tight ends. Henry will have to be more than just a red-zone threat, though, and Gates still being there will take away some of his love, especially in the fan vote.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 15%

Antonio Gates, TE

While his production will most likely not match that of his other eight Pro Bowl seasons, if he can be consistent and productive on his limited reps, he is popular and respected enough to get the votes. That said, he hasn’t made the Pro Bowl since 2011.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 10%

Forrest Lamp, OL

I wish I could put Russell Okung here, but I just don’t think he will be good enough. That said, whatever position Lamp ends up playing, he will most likely succeed and succeed big time. He was arguably the best offensive line prospect in the draft and could have a Zack Martin-esque impact. If so, he could follow Martin’s footsteps and make the Pro Bowl as a rookie.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 10%

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Joey Bosa, DE

Bosa ranked 13th on Pro Football Focus’ Top 50 Players of the 2016 season. He was somehow left out of the Pro Bowl last year after posting 10.5 sacks in 12 games. He is already looked at as a top 10 defensive player. This year he will have no contract disputes and holdouts. Watch out, NFL.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 99%

Corey Liuget, DE

A couple years ago, many NFL analysts tabbed Liuget as someone who was snubbed on the Pro Bowl roster, as many fans didn’t see his impact. Jump forward now and Liuget has had a couple down years, but still can play an important part on this defense.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 5%

Melvin Ingram, DE

Ingram has been very productive the last two seasons, and barring an injury or some sort of contract holdout, he should continue that trend this year. While Bosa will get most of the attention among the pass-rushers, Ingram is a very important cog on this unit. If the Chargers defense comes close to being as dominant as Seattle with Gus Bradley, Ingram should easily make the Pro Bowl. They have the players, now they just need execution and availability.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 40%

Denzel Perryman, ILB

Perryman has always looked up to Ray Lewis and followed in his footsteps. Wearing number 52 and going to the Unviersity of Miami are just the obvious connections. They are both tackling machines and very smart defensive leaders. If he continues to improve and stays on the field, he could follow Lewis’ steps even more with a Pro Bowl appearance.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 10%

Jatavis Brown, LB

If you read my previous article predicting the 53-man Chargers roster, you know that I love Jatavis Brown. I think he can be the best modern/hybrid LB in the league and I’d be lying if he wasn’t who I’m most excited to see this season on the Chargers’ defense. It will most likely take awhile for him to become a household name, especially if the Chargers aren’t in contention. As a result, his chances aren’t as high as his talent.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 15%

Jason Verrett, CB

It’s simple for Jason Verrett: stay healthy and you are one of the best corners in the league. Though Casey Hayward’s emergence may limit his ability to garner votes, all he has to do is keep doing what he has done when healthy.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 50%

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Casey Hayward, CB

Casey led the league in interceptions last season and really broke out. He especially stepped up when Verrett got injured. Though Verrett’s return will help, it will also move him to CB2, where he will get less of a chance to shine. That said, he already has the recognition and will most likely not regress in terms of ability.

Chance of making Pro Bowl: 60%

The Chargers have plenty of talent to field as many Pro Bowlers as the Oakland Raiders did a season ago. It just has to come together and, most importantly, stay on the field. I know Chargers fans are probably sick of hearing that, but it is as important this season as any. In the end, I expect three to four Bolts to represent the team in the Pro Bowl.

What about you? Which players do you think will make the Pro Bowl for the new team in Los Angeles? Let us know in the comments section below.

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