Three of the Chargers potential biggest offseason regrets
By Tyler Schoon
Chargers offseason regret: No splash signings
Tom Telesco opted to not make any big signings this past offseason, with his “biggest” acquisition being veteran linebacker Thomas Davis. It’s been his method of operation for two years now as he prepares for the contract extension of his quarterback, defensive end, and running back, among others. Though not flashy, it is currently the smartest option for a team built to win for years.
However, this could lead to regret as the season moves along. What if there was just one piece clearly missing from the team that could have been brought in in free agency? Did the team make the right move in bringing back Denzel Perryman, adding Davis, and using Day 3 draft picks to fix the linebacker position, or should they have gone all-in and brought expensive free agent C.J. Mosley into the starting lineup? Will the offensive line experiment hold up, or should Telesco have signed a productive tackle or guard instead of banking on future production?
Chargers offseason regret: Using the same offensive linemen
This is likely the most likely regret for the Chargers looking back, though bringing in a new offensive lineman or two with starting potential would not have been easy either. If the Chargers had opted to go with a tackle with their first or second round selections, the team would now likely have a deficit at defensive tackle or free safety. It was clear Telesco had no intention of bringing in a mid-range tackle to supplant Sam Tevi, as the coaching staff believes he can at the very least be just that after a full offseason as the true starter. That would rule out average tackles like Jermey Parnell and Ryan Schraeder, two free agents who are popular picks among fans because they recognize their names.
So the team will now have a starting lineup that looks like:
- LT Russell Okung
- LG Dan Feeney
- C Mike Pouncey
- RG Forrest Lamp
- RT Sam Tevi
Next. The Chargers All-Draft Team
For my money, Lamp should figure out how to play left guard and leave Michael Schofield, the better of Tevi and Feeney, at his right guard position. Either way, it’s using the same members of the 2018 roster to fix three problems. There is no way all three spots are fixed this season, and it may take a great performance from the defense to push the Chargers past the Patriots.