Chargers preseason: Winners and losers from Saints game

CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Troymaine Pope #35 of the Los Angeles Chargers eludes a tackles as runs back a punt for a touchdown during the first half of their pre seaon football game against New Orleans Saints at Dignity Health Sports Park on August 18, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Troymaine Pope #35 of the Los Angeles Chargers eludes a tackles as runs back a punt for a touchdown during the first half of their pre seaon football game against New Orleans Saints at Dignity Health Sports Park on August 18, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
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CARSON, CA – AUGUST 18: Quarterback Cardale Jones #7 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws during the first half of their pre seaon football game against New Orleans Saints at Dignity Health Sports Park on August 18, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA – AUGUST 18: Quarterback Cardale Jones #7 of the Los Angeles Chargers throws during the first half of their pre seaon football game against New Orleans Saints at Dignity Health Sports Park on August 18, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

The Chargers lost their second preseason game, a contest featuring both bright and dark spots from players. Who were the biggest winners and losers?

It’s never particularly great to lose a 17-3 lead, but it’s better for it to happen when the games don’t matter so much. The Chargers got off to a quick start in the first half and then proceeded to lose almost all momentum in the second half. But ultimately, with preseason football, it’s just seeing how the players look without regular season consequences.

Let’s get to the winners and losers.

Chargers winner: Cardale Jones

At this point, Jones is probably playing for a spot on another team. That’s the likelihood at least with Tyrod Taylor and Easton Stick on the roster. The Chargers can theoretically practice squad him, but that’s also where another team could pick him up. Not many have been impressed with Jones during his tenure, but he had a great game today with some good throws as well as pocket awareness with a more porous line than usual. His throws to Culkin and Patton on the touchdown drive were impressive, and it was easily his best drive over the last three years with the Chargers.

He also looked a lot faster and more aware this game than he had looked previously. As said before, it’s likely too little too late with the way the Chargers are headed with Stick as their next project. But, if Jones has another game like that, maybe he’s got a spot on another team.

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