NFL's Next Gen Stats released a ranking of all 2024 defenses by tackling grade. Using a combination of statistics, yards, tackling probability, and more, a data evaluation was made for all 32 teams. Chargers fans will be happy with how the team compared to its peers.
The Chargers came in 11th place in the NGS rankings with a grade of 81.1 (B-). Per the article, Los Angeles improved quite a bit in statistical tackling efficiency as they jumped from 17th in 2023 to 8th in 2024.
Next Gen Stats also gave credit to four specific Chargers players who finished the season with great tackling numbers. The four Los Angeles players who finished with 2024 missed tackle rates under 10% were S Derwin James (6.1%), LB Troy Dye (7.1%), CB Kristian Fulton (7.3%), and S Elijah Molden (8.9%).
James is obviously viewed as a long term key cog of Jesse Minter's defense. He's under contract for two more seasons.
Chargers' tackling stats highlight importance of NFL free agency
However, the three other players who put up impressive tackling seasons are all free agents. Dye, Fulton, and Molden could look to test the market in 2025. A breakout season from Molden specifically could make him well-paid in free agency relative to the safety market.
Fulton's improved tackling numbers are perhaps the biggest surprise from 2024. In 2023, Fulton's missed tackle rate, via Pro Football Focus, was 20.4%. He had never had a season below a 10% missed tackle rate in his four-year career before coming to LA.
While his coverage toward the end of the season and the playoffs fell off statistically from what it was at the beginning of the year, it's fair to say his all-around game was better in 2024. His impact in the run game and on screen plays was certainly felt last season.
Would the Chargers want to run it back with Fulton? Or are they comfortable seeing which other defensive backs are out there in the free agent market and the 2025 NFL Draft? For now, Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still are probably penciled in for 2025 starting roles.
As for Dye, he backed up his perception of being a solid tackler on defense in addition to his contributions on special teams. Will he look for a bigger defensive role elsewhere in 2025? The familiarity that Dye has with special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken has only grown since their time together in Minnesota.
While James will be back, the Chargers will look to see which of their better tacklers from last season return in addition to the Second-Team All-Pro safety.