Why the LA Chargers could surprisingly re-sign Melvin Ingram

Sep 13, 2020; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Melvin Ingram (54) celebrates after his fourth quarter interception against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2020; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Los Angeles Chargers defensive end Melvin Ingram (54) celebrates after his fourth quarter interception against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /
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Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports – LA Chargers

2. The LA Chargers could certainly use Melvin Ingram

The LA Chargers have not confirmed whether or not they are switching over to a 3-4 defense but head coach Brandon Staley did say it would differ from week-to-week based on the matchup vs. each opponent.

The LA Chargers could use Melvin Ingram regardless. The depth on the edge is not great and while the team will likely draft someone in the 2021 NFL Draft, I would not expect that prospect to have a huge impact right away as it will likely be someone in the mid-to-late rounds.

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The Chargers have other roster needs that simply have to be addressed first. The offensive line has to be priority number one and you could definitely make the case for the team needing a cornerback more than an edge defender.

The Chargers do not have to rely on Ingram to have an every-down role, but with his experience in a 3-4 defense, he could provide snaps both at outside linebacker and defensive end. Granted, he won’t be the same Melvin Ingram, but he certainly is still a positive presence in the pass-rush.

Right now, the only tangible option the team has at outside linebacker is Uchenna Nwosu, who is also the team’s only real option at defensive end across from Joey Bosa. Nwosu is solid, but there is nothing wrong with adding some veteran depth.