For the first time since the 2006 season, the Los Angeles Chargers will have a new quarterback under center as they officially part ways with Philip Rivers.
This comes as no surprise as there have been rumors throughout the season, but it is finally official. Philip Rivers has been the team’s starting quarterback since 2006. It will be tough to move on from a franchise legend and someone who has been with the team through thick and thin since he was drafted, but the time has come.
Although this was a very likely possibility, this is still heartbreaking. I’m not even really sure what to say other than, thank you.
Thank you for the countless memories. Your records, personality and passion for the game of football will never be forgotten. Thank you for blessing Chargers fans with stability at the game’s most important position.
There are so many memories of Rivers that Chargers fans will never forget.
“In anything you do, it’s the people you do it with that make it special. There are so many relationships and memories with coaches, support staff and teammates that will last forever, and for that I am so thankful."
Philip Rivers to Enter Free Agency » https://t.co/njeTsCbi1D pic.twitter.com/bCKXKTRePh
— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) February 10, 2020
The AFC Championship game against the New England Patriots that he played with a torn ACL. Leading the comeback against the Kansas City Chiefs last season. Taking down Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts in back-to-back years in the playoffs. The list can go on and on, but the one thing about Phil that will always stick out to me is his intense passion for the game.
Rivers has the Mamba Mentality. He is a gunslinger who is never afraid to fail. Someone who would always have his teammate’s back and would strive to not only make himself better but those around him.
With Rivers and the team moving on, this will allow the Chargers to use their franchise tag and salary cap in other areas.
According to Ian Rapoport, with Rivers entering free agency, this could allow the Chargers to use the franchise tag on Hunter Henry this offseason. Henry has been a tremendous tight end for the Chargers and is someone who could greatly benefit any quarterback.
While this is the end of an era for the Chargers, the team still has plenty of talent on both sides of the ball, a high draft pick and over $50 million in cap space. The Chargers could put themselves right back into playoff contention after a down year.