2. Re-sign Kyzir White
Kyzir White was the breakout player on the defense for the LA Chargers in 2021. He made the biggest leap with Brandon Staley coming into town and outside of Derwin James and Joey Bosa, was the most reliable player on the defensive side of the ball for the Chargers.
This breakout season came at the perfect time for White, who hits the free-agent market with a value that is much higher than it would have been a year ago. While there are various projections ranging from $6 million to $11 million a season, the contract projection that we gave White was a four-year, $35 million deal (however would not be surprised if it is a three-year, $26.25 million deal at the same AAV).
While that is not a small contract it is not a massive contract either and with so much cap flexibility and money to spend this offseason, there really is no reason for the Chargers not to sign White. They are not going to find an improvement in free agency that costs any less and they are not going to find someone that is significantly better, either.
The other linebackers on the team are worrisome as well. Drue Tranquill is fine but is one of the more overrated players by Charger fans. Kenneth Murray has been a disaster and while there is promising depth in Nick Niemann, it is not nearly promising enough to let White walk away.
Tom Telesco has not given second contracts to many players that he has drafted in the past and he has let talented players like Adrian Phillips walk away before. Hopefully he comes to his senses and makes this no-brainer of a decision or else he will continue to (rightfully) be questioned as the GM.