It’s the season for giving thanks.
While it hasn’t been all sunshine and rainbows for the Chargers this season, there are still reasons for contentment.
Justin Herbert
While many NFL teams are going through a quarterback carousel or just have an average signal-caller, the Chargers are set at the position for the foreseeable future with a great one. Despite dealing with a rough patch with a finger injury this season, Herbert has still played at a high level, especially in recent weeks. He might not have the record to back it up, but that leads to the next thing fans should be thankful for…
A likely new head coach
The Chargers are not getting it done under Brandon Staley. For being touted as a defensive guru, Los Angeles has a bad defense. They rank 29th in points per game allowed since Staley was hired. Additionally, they are just a poorly coached and prepared team. The Chargers have lost 11 games by 3 points or fewer. That’s the worst in the NFL. With that said, L.A. will likely have a new head coach in 2024. And whoever it is, I can assure you they will get the most out of Herbert. At least that’s the hope.
A potential top-10 pick in the 2024 NFL draft
The Chargers are currently projected to have the No. 12 overall selection in the 2024 NFL draft. Sitting at 4-6 with the fourth-hardest schedule remaining, there’s a good possibility that Los Angeles could own a top-10 pick next April. Hello, talent for the future for the new head coach. Can I interest you in Georgia tight end Brock Bowers?
Tuli Tuipulotu
Speaking of talent for the future, Tuipulotu has been nothing short of phenomenal in his rookie campaign. The former USC product has wreaked havoc off the edge. He is tied for second in quarterback pressures (33), hurries (22) and sacks (4) among edge defenders in the 2023 draft class. Additionally, he’s been solid against the run. With Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack’s time with the Chargers nearing an end, it’s refreshing to know they have a future Pro Bowler in the positional room.
Keenan Allen still doing his thing in Year 11
In a year with a season-ending injury to Mike Williams and an injured Joshua Palmer, Allen has provided a massive spark to the offense. Allen is 31 years old but playing like he’s ten years younger. The play on the field has been phenomenal, as he’s still beating defensive backs and finding open space with his crafty route running and the stats reflect it. Allen is up to 83 catches, 1,011 yards and seven touchdowns with seven games remaining. His personal bests are 106 receptions, 1,393 yards and eight touchdowns. He is shattering all of these numbers.
Khalil Mack producing in Year 10
Another veteran on the opposite side of the ball is also showing out. The 32-year-old Mack has been a force off the edge, currently with 11 sacks, which is five shy from topping his personal best. In addition to generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, Mack has been a really good run defender. He is tied for fifth in run stops among edge defenders (16).