3. Linval Joseph
Linval Joseph already showed a really positive impact on the LA Chargers in Week 1 against Cincinnati. While his box score was not all that impressive, his presence was definitely felt as he opened up things for the rest of the pass rush.
Joseph only played in 62 percent of the snaps and recorded two solo and two assisted tackles. While he had no sacks or tackles for loss, having that interior presence made everyone else’s life on the defensive line easier.
This is something that the LA Chargers have not had in quite some time and Joseph will really make his first box score impression in Week 2. Joseph will not only be able to get in Patrick Mahomes‘ face (and record a sack) but he will be helpful in limiting Clyde Edwards-Helaire.
The very obvious thing to do to slow down Mahomes is to get pressure in his face and a lot of the focus is going to be on Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram on the outside and keeping the pocket from collapsing. The Chiefs have a solid offensive line all-around, but the interior definitely is weaker than the tackles.
That’ll open the door for Joseph to leave his mark and if we remember correctly, it was the presence of the interior offensive line two years ago that helped the Chargers shock the Chiefs in Arrowhead.
Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram are the easy picks for players on the defensive line to have a big game. I truly think it will be the new guy in Linval Joseph that makes the biggest mark.