Chargers who could be cut with poor performances Thursday

Chargers cut: Cortez Broughton

This would not be the first rookie (nor the second) to be cut by Tom Telesco before the season began. Tevin Reese and Marion Grice, two late-round selections from 2014, were cut early for weak preseason performances or better showings from players at the same position.

Cortez Broughton has played better than either of those two this preseason, though four total tackles through three games isn’t exactly phenomenal. The problem for the rookie is the ascension of Justin Jones, the obviously-making-the-roster Jerry Tillery, and even some decent play from T.Y. McGill. Broughton was fourth on the defensive tackle depth chart before the preseason began, and he hasn’t done enough in games to warrant jumping McGill since. It’s difficult to imagine the team cutting what is truly a promising college prospect, but the team may find they are more comfortable with the veteran option.

Chargers cut: Nick Dzubnar

This isn’t a head-scratcher for anyone, and even a strong performance on Thursday may not be enough to keep him around. Drue Tranquill leads the team in total tackles, plays great on special teams, and even has an interception. He’s more athletic, faster, and looks like he hits much harder.

Dzubnar should be given all the credit in the world for making an NFL roster and contributing to the Chargers for years now. But, with a poor performance on Thursday, he is likely to be cut from the team.