Lessons from Chargers loss in preseason opener against Cardinals

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - AUGUST 08: Quarterback Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws a pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of the NFL pre-season game at State Farm Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, ARIZONA - AUGUST 08: Quarterback Tyrod Taylor #5 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws a pass against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half of the NFL pre-season game at State Farm Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images)
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GLENDALE, ARIZONA – AUGUST 08: Running back T.J. Logan #22 of the Arizona Cardinals is tackled by middle linebacker Denzel Perryman #52 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the NFL preseason game at State Farm Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 17-13. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, ARIZONA – AUGUST 08: Running back T.J. Logan #22 of the Arizona Cardinals is tackled by middle linebacker Denzel Perryman #52 of the Los Angeles Chargers during the NFL preseason game at State Farm Stadium on August 08, 2019 in Glendale, Arizona. The Cardinals defeated the Chargers 17-13. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

Chargers: Final thoughts

The depth chart for the Chargers is a lot less likely to shift around on the defensive side of the ball, as it is full of proven playmakers who have earned their job. Though both free safety and second corner opposite Casey Hayward jobs are up for grabs, neither Nasir Adderley nor Trevor Williams, the two men fighting for those jobs, were available on Thursday. If this Chargers defense comes into the season healthy, they could be among the league’s best, as they are fast as a unit and full of playmakers all over the field.

Although the Chargers did fall short in this game, there was a few standout players and great plays. The biggest positive is that the team came out with no serious injuries to any major players, although camp standout tight end Andrew Vollert tore his ACL. But, fans will likely take it over other injuries around the league, such as A.J. Green’s sprained ankle. Any fan, from any team, would certainly take that over threatening retirement from the NFL over a helmet.

The Chargers will host the Saints next week for more joint practices and play them in their second preseason game on August 18th, which should be great action for the starters who don’t see as much time in preseason games. If guys can stay healthy and players lower on the depth chart continue to shine, the overall depth of the Chargers should excite a lot of fans.

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