Considering how the Los Angeles Chargers’ linebacker position has struggled to remain healthy over the last couple of years, depth can be very important.
Linebacker Tre Johnson could provide that necessary depth that the Bolts have been lacking over the last few seasons.
The Chargers’ linebacker position is up for grabs. In a group that heavily rotated in the 2018 season, the Chargers should make it a goal to add consistency to the position group in 2019. Rookie linebacker Johnson will be one of those linebackers fighting for a consistent role.
The Chargers made it a point of emphasis over the offseason to shore up the linebacker position on the team. With Denzel Perryman and Kyzir White both missing an extensive amount of time due to injury, it is easy to see why.
Tom Telesco immediately backed up this goal when linebacker Thomas Davis, formerly of the Carolina Panthers, was signed in the early wave of free agency.
Bringing in Davis was a strong move, but the Chargers knew they needed more than just a veteran guy. Once the draft hit, the Bolts further expanded on this mission, drafting Drue Tranquill out of Notre Dame. However, no pick is guaranteed, just like no free agent is guaranteed to fit in another team’s system.
For a more in-depth look at the current linebacker group, here is a look at their 2018 season snap count per Pro Football Reference:
Jatavis Brown: 637
Denzel Perryman: 386
Uchenna Nwosu: 281
Kyzir White: 142
Nick Dzubnar: 2
Tre Johnson: 1
Consistency is needed, and Johnson is one of the 11 linebackers on the team fighting for a roster spot. Whether it be through depth or a starting role, the Chargers need improvement in all areas of this position group.
Johnson has the necessary speed that Gus Bradley loves out of his linebackers, being a former safety in college before making the transition to linebacker. It continues the trend over recent years of Chargers linebackers that have safety experience in their careers.
Johnson has already brought a lot of player-fan interaction to the team. He even posts on his YouTube Channel with content that ranges from his football career, to dance challenges with his family. He also often does Chargers’ giveaways, so give his Twitter page a follow.
Johnson adds to what makes the Chargers special, being the electric and positive personalities that fans have grown so fond of, and he would be a fantastic addition who fans should root for.