A.J. Smith gives vote of confidence to Rivers.

Can Philip Rivers really get the Chargers to the big game? San Diego Chargers GM A.J. Smith sure thinks so. Here is what A.J. had to say about star Quarterback Philip Rivers.

“I believe with my heart and soul that he one day will lead the Chargers to a world championship. He’s a great quarterback—a phenomenal leader with great character, great work habits.”

When asked about the pick/trade of Eli Manning, this is what A.J. had to say.“He was a value pick,” Smith said of Manning. “He was a bar of gold.”

So here is the rundown. Manning said that if the Bolts took him with the 1st overall pick of the 2004 draft, that he would hold out the entire season and re-enter the draft in 2005. A.J. had a plan of attack and when the Chargers selected him 1st overall, it was not their intent to keep him. After Rivers was selected by the Giants 4th overall in the draft, the Chargers dealt out their Manning pick. What did they receive? Giants got Manning. Chargers got Rivers, an 04′ 3rd rounder, an 05′ 1st rounder, and an 05′ 5th rounder. Those picks in turn led us to Nate Kaeding and Shawne Merriman. Feel free to read the full article below using the link to the article page on AOL Sports.

So here is the question. Do you agree with A.J.? Is Rivers a Superbowl caliber quarterback?