LA Chargers: The 10 best players entering the 2020 season

6. CB Casey Hayward

Casey Hayward has been one of the most reliable Chargers in his time here. It’s gotten to the point where quarterbacks don’t even throw to him out of caution. Since signing with the Chargers, Hayward has made two Pro Bowls as well as two second-team All-Pro nods.

What Hayward had to go through for large portions of 2019 might make it the best year of his career. He lost Williams as his opposite corner as well as Derwin James and Adrian Phillips at safety. The secondary was decimated and Hayward had to do the best with what he had.

He was able to shut down opposing number one receivers in 2019. Hayward only gave up more than 75 yards one time. Rendering receivers like DeAndre Hopkins, Sammy Watkins and Courtland Sutton useless without the rest of the secondary being good is impressive.

Going into 2020, Hayward has the opportunity to have maybe the best season in his career. James will be 100% back from his stress fracture after missing most of the 2019 season with it.

The signing of Harris to play slot corner could end up forcing the ball his way more often, resulting in more opportunities for interceptions. It’s still to be determined as to what role Desmond King will play, but whatever it is, the infusion of talent in the secondary will help Hayward.

Hayward is still one of the most underrated cornerbacks in the league. Frankly, he’s one of the most underrated players on this team. He’s easily the best Chargers’ cornerback of this century.

#Chargers CB Casey Hayward picks off #Lions QB Matthew Stafford in the endzone.pic.twitter.com/odak6Tm1YH

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) September 15, 2019