Chargers Going With Young WRs (1 Viewer)

[wannabee]

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2007/06/09...35_186_8_07.txt

Chargers put faith in young wide receivers

By: MIKE SULLIVAN - Staff Writer

SAN DIEGO ---- Malcom Floyd figured it was only a matter of time before a veteran receiver would show up in San Diego after the Chargers released Keenan McCardell in early March. Vincent Jackson's analysis was that the team's recent track record suggested a rookie addition.

So it didn't surprise Jackson that Chargers general manager A.J. Smith eschewed the veteran route and drafted receivers Craig Davis and Legedu Naanee last month. A strong contributing factor in the decision making was Smith's belief that both Jackson and Floyd possess "immense talent." It certainly didn't hurt that Smith isn't a big player in the free-agent market, but the confidence the front office and new coach Norv Turner have in the young, in-house receivers has never been more apparent.

"I just think that they are good players, and we're very happy with where they are," Smith said Friday on the first day of the team's three-day voluntary minicamp. "The only thing that Malcom needs is maybe to stay healthy. But the talent is immense. We think he has a bright future.

"Vincent, last year, I would kind of call a breakout for us, meaning the Chargers and not so much league-wide. But I have a feeling that if he could put back-to-back (good years) together then I think more people around the league will start paying attention to a young receiver ---- Vincent Jackson of the Chargers."

The 24-year-old Jackson, a third-year player out of Northern Colorado, emerged in the second half of the season, accumulating 20 of his 27 receptions over the team's final seven regular-season games. His six touchdown receptions were second on the team to Pro Bowl tight end Antonio Gates (nine).

Floyd broke out with 109 yards receiving ---- the team's top single-game output of the season ---- in a mid-November game against Cincinnati, but suffered a season-ending ankle injury three weeks later against Buffalo.

"That's part of life and part of football, and you have to battle adversity and make sure it doesn't tear it down," said the 25-year-old Floyd, who joined the organization in 2004 as an undrafted free agent from Wyoming. "You have to keep your head up at all times.

"I just knew they had confidence in us after how we performed last year. They have seen us grow over the years and they do have faith in us that we will go out there and make big plays."

Jackson and Floyd (three touchdowns) were the only Chargers wide receivers to reach the end zone last season. Three of Jackson's six scores came in the final two games, and he said he's looking to build on that.

"I'm trying to get out the gate fast this year," Jackson said. "We have such an explosive offense with Norv coming in here and the things he's bringing to the table. I think we're going to really be able to expose some defenses, and he's going to use all the mismatches and advantages we have."

Turner likes what he has seen from the two young receivers during offseason workouts. And quarterback Philip Rivers believes that not bringing in a veteran only boosted the confidence of Jackson and Floyd.

"They've always had confidence," said Rivers, "but certainly, if they needed it, that should have showed them that the organization has the confidence they can get it done.

"I'm excited about them. They're both big, strong, fast guys. To me, they're real streaky. When they get hot, they're really hot. From what I've seen this offseason, they've tried to become more consistent performers on an every-down basis, and I think they've gotten a lot better at that."

Chargers notes

Coach Norv Turner was impressed with Friday's afternoon practice, the second of two workouts. "Our guys are crisp and sharp and on top of it," Turner said. "Very few mistakes. Guys were moving quick and moving with confidence." ... Turner said that WR Craig Davis, the team's first-round draft pick, is the only player not fully healthy for the weekend. Davis injured a groin during May's minicamp. ... General manager A.J. Smith said contract offers have been made to all five of the team's unsigned draft picks. TE Scott Chandler, a fourth-round pick, signed earlier this week. ... Part-time Carlsbad resident John Robinson, whom Turner worked under at USC and with the Los Angeles Rams, was at Friday's afternoon practice.

Contact staff writer Mike Sullivan at (760) 739-6645 or msullivan@nctimes.com.

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[Dirty Weasel]

Strange that they don't mention Eric Parker even once in the entire article. I know he's a few years older than the rest (he's 28), but he's still a starter at the moment... or is he? Do the Chargers think Parker will be riding the pines come kickoff in week 1?

 

[Despyzer]

Strange that they don't mention Eric Parker even once in the entire article. I know he's a few years older than the rest (he's 28), but he's still a starter at the moment... or is he? Do the Chargers think Parker will be riding the pines come kickoff in week 1?

I'm pretty sure he's WR2 right now, but it's far from inconceivable that he drop to #4 as the season progresses.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

 

[fsufan]

I hope one of those young WRs steps up and takes some pressure of gates

 

[Sinrman]

The Achilles Heel of this team....

 

[a_troll00]

The Achilles Heel of this team....

I'm really wondering if the Chargers will ever have an option ahead of LT and Gates on 3rd and Long.

 

[Despyzer]

I'm really wondering if the Chargers will ever have an option ahead of LT and Gates on 3rd and Long.

Parker had only one less catch on 3rd downs than Gates (19 to 20) and 7 more than Tomlinson (12) last year.

 

[Air Coryell]

I'm really wondering if the Chargers will ever have an option ahead of LT and Gates on 3rd and Long.

Parker had only one less catch on 3rd downs than Gates (19 to 20) and 7 more than Tomlinson (12) last year.

I still cant get past that horrible playoff game by Parker last year. I've never seen a vetern player so un-prepared to play a game in my life. Its time to give the newer guys a shot here. Let him play as the 3rd or 4th WR., with hopefully no PR duties.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I know Hardcore Chargers fans carry AJ Smith's flag to the end and he does have a terrific track record of finding talent in the draft and such, but all that said...you have to question a guy that fires the coach who posts the best record in SD history...I promise you that SD will not go 14-2 again this season and the lack of a solid veteran WR on this team will hurt them. And Parker is not what I consider a solid veteran WR...they should have leaped to sign Keyshawn Johnson when he was released...perfect WR2 or even WR3 on that team. But AJ knows more than the rest of us...

 

[greyone]

The Achilles Heel of this team....

..are their cornerbacks.

 

[Despyzer]

I know Hardcore Chargers fans carry AJ Smith's flag to the end and he does have a terrific track record of finding talent in the draft and such, but all that said...you have to question a guy that fires the coach who posts the best record in SD history...I promise you that SD will not go 14-2 again this season and the lack of a solid veteran WR on this team will hurt them. And Parker is not what I consider a solid veteran WR...they should have leaped to sign Keyshawn Johnson when he was released...perfect WR2 or even WR3 on that team. But AJ knows more than the rest of us...

Unfortunately, Schottenheimer left A.J. no choice but to fire him. Trust me, he wasn't fired for going 14-2.The Chargers already have a couple guys on the squad that do exactly what Keyshawn does, but they are younger, faster, and less expensive. That would have been a poor decision.They also have had a strong veteran presence at the position for the last couple of years. McCardell's impact won't be forgotten just because he's not there anymore.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I know Hardcore Chargers fans carry AJ Smith's flag to the end and he does have a terrific track record of finding talent in the draft and such, but all that said...you have to question a guy that fires the coach who posts the best record in SD history...I promise you that SD will not go 14-2 again this season and the lack of a solid veteran WR on this team will hurt them. And Parker is not what I consider a solid veteran WR...they should have leaped to sign Keyshawn Johnson when he was released...perfect WR2 or even WR3 on that team. But AJ knows more than the rest of us...

Unfortunately, Schottenheimer left A.J. no choice but to fire him. Trust me, he wasn't fired for going 14-2.The Chargers already have a couple guys on the squad that do exactly what Keyshawn does, but they are younger, faster, and less expensive. That would have been a poor decision.They also have had a strong veteran presence at the position for the last couple of years. McCardell's impact won't be forgotten just because he's not there anymore.

Really? Who do they have that is like Keyshawn and puts up 70-80 catches a year, avg 1,000 yds and scores 5-6 TD from their WR position...I don't see anyone like that. Maybe the present Keyshawn would not be a good choice for them but they have no one on their staff that is doing that so to say that is not being honest. I really want to like the Chargers but this off season IMO has been mostly a debacle for them...I said if they were going to lose Marty which we all smelled in the air that they should have fired him ASAP after the playoffs and then gone ahead and hired either Cam or Wade...whichever they thought would keep the team together. They are in for a rocky ride this season...I hope SD fans don't run and hide when they are fighting to get into the playoffs and not coasting along...Indy showed us that even after going 12-0 and then getting destroyed in the playoffs that you stick with what works and now they have a Lombardi Trophy to show for it. They could have told Dungy it just couldn't go on, or they needed to break things up and start over...I really don't think Turner is capable of what Gruden was able to do with a loaded team. And lets face it, anything short of a trip to the SB IMO is going to be a pretty meaningless season to the Chargers, LT and the entire team. How many Chargers fans would really be happy with a Wildcard spot, and maybe winning in round 1 but losing in the divisional playoffs? It's not the vibe I seem to get form these boards.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I hear Albert Connell is not too busy these days...and Norv did coach him in Washington...

 

[CrossEyed]

As a Vincent Jackson dynasty owner, I'm liking what I'm hearing.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I know Hardcore Chargers fans carry AJ Smith's flag to the end and he does have a terrific track record of finding talent in the draft and such, but all that said...you have to question a guy that fires the coach who posts the best record in SD history.

I really want to like the Chargers but this off season IMO has been mostly a debacle for them...I said if they were going to lose Marty which we all smelled in the air that they should have fired him ASAP after the playoffs and then gone ahead and hired either Cam or Wade...whichever they thought would keep the team together.

1. AJ Smith didn't fire Marty. Dean Spanos did.2. AJ and Dean both wanted to keep Marty. That's why they didn't fire him right after the season ended.3. Marty became insubordinate, directly disobeying Dean Spanos, most likely because he was trying to get fired. That's why Spanos fired him.I don't think it's fair to blame AJ for failing to predict that Marty would become insubordinate. (Kevin Acee of the Union Tribune wrote that Dean Spanos expressly told Marty not to consider Kurt Schottenheimer for the defensive coordinator position. So the very next day, Marty bought Kurt a plane ticket to come interview for the defensive coordinator role. Acee says Marty knew what he was doing. He knew this would be his last year in San Diego, and he preferred to go out after a 14-2 season when his stock was at its highest instead of sticking around as a lame duck. If he had quit, he'd have lost out on the $3 million he was due this year. So he got himself fired.)

 

[Rev]

The Achilles Heel of this team....

I'm really wondering if the Chargers will ever have an option ahead of LT and Gates on 3rd and Long.

Good question. Or more broadly, will they ever have a WR get more targets than either of these 2?

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

 

[Despyzer]

Really? Who do they have that is like Keyshawn and puts up 70-80 catches a year, avg 1,000 yds and scores 5-6 TD from their WR position...I don't see anyone like that. Maybe the present Keyshawn would not be a good choice for them but they have no one on their staff that is doing that so to say that is not being honest.

Expecting Keyshawn to put up those numbers this year is what isn't honest. The Chargers couldb't go out and pick up the Keyshawn of several years ago. That guy wasn't available. Who they do have is Vincent Jackson and Malcolm Floyd. Big guys who will go over over the middle and be big endzone atrgets.

I really want to like the Chargers but this off season IMO has been mostly a debacle for them...I said if they were going to lose Marty which we all smelled in the air that they should have fired him ASAP after the playoffs and then gone ahead and hired either Cam or Wade...whichever they thought would keep the team together. They are in for a rocky ride this season...I hope SD fans don't run and hide when they are fighting to get into the playoffs and not coasting along...Indy showed us that even after going 12-0 and then getting destroyed in the playoffs that you stick with what works and now they have a Lombardi Trophy to show for it. They could have told Dungy it just couldn't go on, or they needed to break things up and start over.

You're kind of making yourself look ignorant here. Marty wasn't fired for failing to win playoff games either.

I really don't think Turner is capable of what Gruden was able to do with a loaded team. And lets face it, anything short of a trip to the SB IMO is going to be a pretty meaningless season to the Chargers, LT and the entire team. How many Chargers fans would really be happy with a Wildcard spot, and maybe winning in round 1 but losing in the divisional playoffs? It's not the vibe I seem to get form these boards.

Winning even one playoff game would have to be considered progress, but I don't think a conference title is out of the question. Not winning the division would be no disgrace because talent-wise, the Broncos are about as good as any team in the league.

 

[Despyzer]

The Achilles Heel of this team....

I'm really wondering if the Chargers will ever have an option ahead of LT and Gates on 3rd and Long.

Good question. Or more broadly, will they ever have a WR get more targets than either of these 2?

What makes that necessary?

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I know Hardcore Chargers fans carry AJ Smith's flag to the end and he does have a terrific track record of finding talent in the draft and such, but all that said...you have to question a guy that fires the coach who posts the best record in SD history.

I really want to like the Chargers but this off season IMO has been mostly a debacle for them...I said if they were going to lose Marty which we all smelled in the air that they should have fired him ASAP after the playoffs and then gone ahead and hired either Cam or Wade...whichever they thought would keep the team together.

1. AJ Smith didn't fire Marty. Dean Spanos did.2. AJ and Dean both wanted to keep Marty. That's why they didn't fire him right after the season ended.3. Marty became insubordinate, directly disobeying Dean Spanos, most likely because he was trying to get fired. That's why Spanos fired him.I don't think it's fair to blame AJ for failing to predict that Marty would become insubordinate. (Kevin Acee of the Union Tribune wrote that Dean Spanos expressly told Marty not to consider Kurt Schottenheimer for the defensive coordinator position. So the very next day, Marty bought Kurt a plane ticket to come interview for the defensive coordinator role. Acee says Marty knew what he was doing. He knew this would be his last year in San Diego, and he preferred to go out after a 14-2 season when his stock was at its highest instead of sticking around as a lame duck. If he had quit, he'd have lost out on the $3 million he was due this year. So he got himself fired.)

I appreciate the post MT and I also want to make a few points as I disagree.The media let it be known for a long time that AJ was unhappy with Marty and that he was probably going to replace him at some point be it this season or at the end of this season. That had to have an impact on Marty and in fact it did because as you said he didn't want to be a "lameduck"...why would a 14-2 record make a HC a "lameduck". You don't have to really answer that because I am going to use an analogy/example.I own FBG for a second and I say to you MT that while I like your writing and your work on the site I simply will not extend your contract beyond this season...and I also badmouth you a bit behind your back to Pasquino and Wood...you catch wind of it...is your will to want to churn out good info going to change knowing I want to replace you at the end of the season short of you personally adding 10,000 new subscribers to my site...of course it would make a BIG impact! In fact I would venture that you would tell me to just replace you immediately or you would find a way to get fired before the season even started.Sure Marty knew what he was doing but AJ was not some angel that didn't make life hard for MS...maybe Schotty didn't make it easy to get along with him either but he was turning around a franchise that has a track history in the past 15-25 years amonst the worst in the NFL...they have had a couple of playoff appearances hear and there, 1 SB appearance but mostly a lot of double digit loss seasons. Now we can debate back and forth till the season starts but I simply do not see San Diego having the same success they had a year ago...and I would consider 12-4, 13-3, and winning the division...I would consider that equal success...but I don't think going 10-6 maybe making the Wildcard, that doesn't seem like it will sit well with CHargers' fnas...not to mention the scrutiny the media will lay down on Turner when things don't go exactly as they should. Look what the Media did to Vick...ESPN will take a blowtorch to someone if it will make news and get people to tune in. Between the NFL network, ESPN, and all the other wannabee news outlets you can be assured they will be on top of Turner all year. Microphones in players faces asking why they are not going to go 14-2 again...it could get ugly. You may not see the things I am seeing but many of us knew MS and AJ could not function together as a unit anymore...so whether it came down like it did or not, someone knew what was going to happen, and AJ should have been a step ahead of MS. Are you telling me the team wouldn't be better off with Cam or Wade in charge? Seriously?

 

[Despyzer]

Now we can debate back and forth till the season starts but I simply do not see San Diego having the same success they had a year ago...and I would consider 12-4, 13-3, and winning the division...I would consider that equal success...but I don't think going 10-6 maybe making the Wildcard, that doesn't seem like it will sit well with CHargers' fnas

If you are talking true Chargers fans, I doubt the year you are describing would bother them that much. Take a look at 2005 if you want historical precedence. The previous year, the Chargers won their division going 12-4. The next year the expectations were realistic but every bit as high as this year. Instead, they went 9-7 and missed the playoffs. Were Charger fans disappointed? Certainly. Were we up in arms, calling for heads to roll? No, not really. The reason behind this is one that you already pointed out. This franchise has been awful for many, many years. With that has come the expectations of the worst. Another year like 2005 would indeed be disappointing, but not nearly as disappointing as the years of consistent losing seasons.

...not to mention the scrutiny the media will lay down on Turner when things don't go exactly as they should. Look what the Media did to Vick...ESPN will take a blowtorch to someone if it will make news and get people to tune in. Between the NFL network, ESPN, and all the other wannabee news outlets you can be assured they will be on top of Turner all year. Microphones in players faces asking why they are not going to go 14-2 again...it could get ugly.

This is the root of your argument? The media? You can't be serious.

You may not see the things I am seeing but many of us knew MS and AJ could not function together as a unit anymore...so whether it came down like it did or not, someone knew what was going to happen, and AJ should have been a step ahead of MS. Are you telling me the team wouldn't be better off with Cam or Wade in charge? Seriously?

We knew they weren't getting along. But A.J. did the honorable thing and tried to make things work despite their differences. Marty waited until Cam and Wade had already been hired away before deciding to sabotage the whole thing. You can't have it both ways though. You can't say that A.J. was a dope for ever firing Marty (which he didn't), and then say he was a dope for not firing him a month and a half earlier.

 

[rct]

why would a 14-2 record make a HC a "lameduck"

If it is the last year of his contract and it appears it will not be renewed beyond that, a HC is a "lameduck" irrespective of his record.

 

[Gold Plated Nails]

I really like Floyds chances to finish as WR #2 on the Bolts this year (Total Fantasy Pts). Health is going to be the main thing that will determine it.

PS: Marty got himself fired

PSS: 10 or 11 win season for the Chargers would be fine with 95% of their fans.

 

[Ministry of Pain]

I really like Floyds chances to finish as WR #2 on the Bolts this year (Total Fantasy Pts). Health is going to be the main thing that will determine it.

I totally agree. Floyd just needs to stay healthy but he is a terrific red zone target.

PS: Marty got himself fired

I still do not understand why that matters. Do Chargerfans feel better saying this repeatedly?

PSS: 10 or 11 win season for the Chargers would be fine with 95% of their fans.

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

 

[Gr00vus]

Strange that they don't mention Eric Parker even once in the entire article. I know he's a few years older than the rest (he's 28), but he's still a starter at the moment... or is he? Do the Chargers think Parker will be riding the pines come kickoff in week 1?

From today's SDUnionTrib:

Playoff nightmare still haunts Parker

Chargers receiver driven to leave demons behind

By Kevin Acee

UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

June 10, 2007

JOHN GIBBINS / Union-Tribune

Eric Parker is known as one of the Chargers' hardest workers.

An afternoon of paradox for Eric Parker has made him for five long months the object of Chargers fans' indignation, the chief reason they believe their team did not make it past another opening-round playoff game.

Thing is, Parker does not argue with that.

“There was no bigger factor,” he said in a firm voice yesterday. “I'm not scared to say that.”

This proud man who has worked so hard to make himself indispensable to the Chargers, who still works as if his dismissal could be imminent, has recovered.

But he has not forgotten.

He will not say he is working harder, since he has long worked so hard his position coach has actually told him to take it easy. But Parker is driven to make sure thoughts of that January night at Qualcomm Stadium are banished.

“That game is in the past,” he said, “and the good thing about it is that I know I'm never going to feel like that again.”

He has for the past few seasons been the most reliable receiver on the team, possessed of great hands, precise running and smarts. Yet Parker emerged from the Chargers' 20-17 loss to the New England Patriots on Jan. 14 as the poster boy of a team that played uncharacteristically jittery and saw the promise of a 14-2 season go “poof!”

Yesterday was Parker's first time talking publicly about the game in which he dropped two apparent first-down passes and muffed a punt. In the hours after that game, Parker sat in a quiet corner of the Chargers' locker room, inconsolable by teammates and unavailable to the media.

He is a private man who shuns both positive and negative press. His responses always end up referring to hard work. Even yesterday, his answers tended to drift there.

But after initially attempting to defer talk about the playoff game, Parker opened up in a way that is rare for him.

“It hurt,” he said. “When you lose because you know you defeated yourself – and I'm talking about me – that's the most terrible feeling you can have. When you feel like you're the goat . . . you feel like you let a lot of people down. That was the embarrassment.”

While the two balls that clanged off his hands stopped promising drives, it was his dropping a punt and then attempting to pick it up and run from the Chargers' 31-yard line that was particularly egregious. It happened in the third quarter, and after he could not get a handle on the ball and David Thomas recovered it, the Patriots scored a field goal to pull within 14-13.

“I should have just fallen on it,” Parker said. “I don't know why I did it. I just did it.”

No one may ever know what happened to Parker and other Chargers that day, other than that the game got away from them at the worst time.

But Parker's teammates remain staunch about him.

“Because of (his reliability), that's why I think it hurt him even more,” quarterback Philip Rivers said. “But that's why I didn't even think about it. I felt for him. I felt for us all. But I look at what he did the other 17 weeks of the season.”

Parker, about to enter his sixth season and in the second year of a five-year, $13.225 million contract, dropped just two of the 70 passes thrown his way all of 2006. Just 22 players leaguewide who had that many passes thrown to them dropped that few.

He was Rivers' favorite third-and-long target, even more so than tight end Antonio Gates. And he caught all nine of the fourth-quarter passes thrown to him.

“Being big, fast, running and jumping is all great,” Rivers said. “But if you're not dependable it doesn't matter. He's a guy I know I can count on.”

Unsolicited, Gates said: “Eric is the most underrated receiver in the league, by far.”

Receivers coach James Lofton tells stories about Parker. When Lofton is at the combine and Senior Bowl each year, receivers coaches on other teams want to talk about Parker.

Lofton used to wish Parker would put on weight, until he finally realized it wouldn't make Parker any tougher. He was already as tough as they come. It is well-known around the Chargers complex that Parker wouldn't say a word if his arm were about to fall off.

“He's the first guy I've ever had to tell, 'You don't have to work that hard,' ” Lofton said. “He will work himself to exhaustion in practice.”

Parker redeemed himself in Lofton's mind with a 21-yard reception against the Patriots two plays before Nate Kaeding's 54-yard field goal attempt that fell short in the final seconds.

“He still came through toward the end of the game,” Lofton said. “That's being resilient, which is the mark of a great pro. And I think he borders on that.”

Parker still looks forward to his next chance.

“It's going to feel really good to go out and play within myself and forget the reputation and be the person you are,” he said. “You don't live up to the reputation.”

 

[Gr00vus]

I think there's going to be room for all the receivers to contribute to the best of their abilities. The playoff game not withstanding, Parker runs great routes and has great hands. He'll work the slot and be Rivers' security blanket as he was last year. Davis will stretch the field along with Floyd and Jackson, Jackson and Floyd will be in the redzone package and I think Jackson will be receiving option #2 behind Gates overall.

The receiving corps is a question mark, but to write them off and suggest bringing in Keyshawn Johnson or Albert Connell (?!?!) would be an upgrade - well that seems ill advised, to put it politely.

I think defenses aren't going to know what hit them after playing the Chargers this season.

 

[Gold Plated Nails]

I really like Floyds chances to finish as WR #2 on the Bolts this year (Total Fantasy Pts). Health is going to be the main thing that will determine it.

I totally agree. Floyd just needs to stay healthy but he is a terrific red zone target.

PS: Marty got himself fired

I still do not understand why that matters. Do Chargerfans feel better saying this repeatedly?

PSS: 10 or 11 win season for the Chargers would be fine with 95% of their fans.

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

MOP, the schedule is tougher this year and they are working in a new coaching staff. So getting to 11 wins would still be a very good record. I fully expect the Bolts to win the Division and compete for a Superbowl, I just dont see them going 14-2 again without a good deal of good fortune. So 11 Wins and the playoffs would be acceptable to the majority of Bolts fans I believe.No playoffs would be a MASSIVE dissapointment, the exact win total is less of a cocern.

As for CB, Cromartie (06 1st rd pick) should be able to step up his play to complement Jammer and Florence. The WR salthough inexperienced are better then most everyone gives credit for. Frankly there isn't alot not to like on the team, every team has a few warts, even the medias team (Pats).

 

[Despyzer]

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

How long was the Colts' window open? They made the playoffs almost every year since 1999 (with double-digit wins in seven of those years and two different head coaches).

 

[Ministry of Pain]

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

How long was the Colts' window open? They made the playoffs almost every year since 1999 (with double-digit wins in seven of those years and two different head coaches).

Teams that had a great chance to go to the SB but didn't...New Orleans

1987:12-3

1988: 10-6

1991: 11-5

1992: 12-4

And then that window shut for a long time.

Cleveland

1986: 12-4

1987: 10-5

1988: 10-6

Didn't get it done

Houston

1991: 11-5

1992: 10-6

1993: 12-4

3 seasons of 10+ wins here too and didn't make the SB.

Kansas City

1990: 11-5

1991: 10-6

1992: 10-6

1993: 11-5

Its hard to stay good for a long time...even NE had a down year after they won their 1st SuperBowl

If sitting back and pointing to Indy makes you feel better then so be it but as a Chargersfan you want to be hoping they go for the throat...and there seems to be a lot of good/great teams in the AFC...NE/Indy/Balt have 5 of the last 7 Lombardi Trophys...so San Diego has to strike while they can. Guys in here are already saying that 10-6 is an OK season...what kind of talk is that? If they go backwards who is to blame? Is it because MS was fired? I can just see into the future and I see a lot of excuses and people running under rocks in December/January...I hope that isn't the case but...

 

[wannabee]

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

How long was the Colts' window open? They made the playoffs almost every year since 1999 (with double-digit wins in seven of those years and two different head coaches).

I see the loss of both coordinators as worse than losing Marty. You bring up Indy, but how long has Moore been the OC? He is an unsung guy in INdy.

 

[The Man With No Name]

10-6 with the talent they have on that roster would be unacceptable to me as a fan...you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance. I am only hard on San Diego, not because I hate the Bolts, but because I see the opp for them to win a SB with all the talent they have...they really just need to shore up the CB and maybe find a reliable WR.

How long was the Colts' window open? They made the playoffs almost every year since 1999 (with double-digit wins in seven of those years and two different head coaches).

I see the loss of both coordinators as worse than losing Marty. You bring up Indy, but how long has Moore been the OC? He is an unsung guy in INdy.

Moore went to Indy in 1998, along with Peyton. He did have great success before his Colts job, too. He will turn 70 in 2008, wonder how much longer he wants to coach.

 

[Despyzer]

Teams that had a great chance to go to the SB but didn't...

Strange that I don't see any 14-2 teams with 10 (mostly young) Pro-Bowlers amongst your list.

If sitting back and pointing to Indy makes you feel better then so be it but as a Chargersfan you want to be hoping they go for the throat

Of course we do. Where do you see anybody hoping for anything different?

...and there seems to be a lot of good/great teams in the AFC...NE/Indy/Balt have 5 of the last 7 Lombardi Trophys...so San Diego has to strike while they can. Guys in here are already saying that 10-6 is an OK season...what kind of talk is that?

Once again, you are trying to have it both ways. Chargers fans realize how good the competition in the AFC is, even within the Chargers' division. We also realize 14 win seasons don't come around every year. Heck the Chargers have only managed to win a dozen games or more three times in their entire 46 year history. That's why 10 wins in the regular season would be disappointing but reasonable. 10 wins + postseason success >>> 14 wins + 0 playoff wins.

If they go backwards who is to blame? Is it because MS was fired? I can just see into the future and I see a lot of excuses and people running under rocks in December/January...I hope that isn't the case but...

This has already been covered, even by you. There are a lot of tough teams in the AFC, and the Chargers will be playing just about all of them this year - Indy, NE, Denver X2, Balt, Jax, KC X2 and the resurgent Tenn. They also have the 14-2 Bears on the schedule. Losing approximately half of these games would be no disgrace.

 

[Bri]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

How's he now Maurile? I thought he got hurt again but seeing this post makes me think I may have seen that 2nd day mini camp news regurgitated.Do you think Floyd starts over Parker?

 

[Toads]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

How's he now Maurile? I thought he got hurt again but seeing this post makes me think I may have seen that 2nd day mini camp news regurgitated.Do you think Floyd starts over Parker?

How about Parker to the slot? Using a three wide + Gates on 3rd down packages with LT coming down the seam?Phew!

That leaves them deep with Davis backing up all three and getting his feet wet to step in come the second half of the season.

 

[Bri]

Who cares if the Chargers go 14-2 again? Making the playoffs then beginning that new season is all that matters.

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

How's he now Maurile? I thought he got hurt again but seeing this post makes me think I may have seen that 2nd day mini camp news regurgitated.Do you think Floyd starts over Parker?

I think that Floyd and Vjax will start will E.P being a WR3, and that Buster Davis replaces Parker, soon.Also, in goal line situations Floyd,Vjax will on the field for the corner jump balls.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I'm not sure it's going to matter much who starts (i.e., who plays on the first snap). It will be a rotation. If I had to guess right now, I'd say that VJ and Davis will get the most starts -- but obviously a heck of a lot can happen between now and the season to change my mind.

I'd generally expect Parker to get about as much playing time as Floyd between the twenties, but Floyd will get the red zone snaps. It will probably be VJ and Floyd inside the twenty, with Davis and Parker getting their playing time (Parker probably out of the slot) on the rest of the field.

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

How's he now Maurile? I thought he got hurt again but seeing this post makes me think I may have seen that 2nd day mini camp news regurgitated.

He didn't get hurt this past weekend. He was less than 100%, but he participated.

 

[Bri]

I saw somewhere yest. where Craig "Buster" Davis tore his groin during his Pro Day and still hasn't been able to participate.

Davis participated in the first mini-camp and was "better than advertised." He did aggravate his groin on the second day, but he participated again in this weekend's mini-camp (although his reps were limited) and the coaches again had positive things to say about his performance.

How's he now Maurile? I thought he got hurt again but seeing this post makes me think I may have seen that 2nd day mini camp news regurgitated.

He didn't get hurt this past weekend. He was less than 100%, but he participated.

thanks

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance.

While every year brings a wasted chance for 31 teams, it is worth pointing out that 20 of the 24 Charger starters (including punter and kicker) are signed through the next three seasons. Keeping the team intact in 2010 might be a challenge (Rivers, Merriman, McNeil, Castillo, and V.Jackson all become free agents if they're not extended before then). But I think this team has a solid three-year window, at least. (And AJ said he does plan to keep all five of those players.)

 

[Banger]

you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance.

While every year brings a wasted chance for 31 teams, it is worth pointing out that 20 of the 24 Charger starters (including punter and kicker) are signed through the next three seasons. Keeping the team intact in 2010 might be a challenge (Rivers, Merriman, McNeil, Castillo, and V.Jackson all become free agents if they're not extended before then). But I think this team has a solid three-year window, at least. (And AJ said he does plan to keep all five of those players.)

and those few that aren't signed long term have good players waiting in the wings (Cromartie for example) who will take over when those few are not resigned.

 

[kensat30]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

 

[Banger]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

I posted this in the VJax thread a few weeks ago...Thought this was interesting. While Floyd was playing through week 13 (prior to his season ending ankle injury) the distribution between Floyd/Vjax was as follows.....Floyd - 12 G - 32 targets - 15 rec - 210 yards - 3 tdsVJax - 12 G - 27 targets - 13 rec - 167 yards - 3 tdsLooks pretty even to me. I'm not saying Floyd will be the "#1" wr but I think many are overlooking his potential cut into VJax's targets. VJax's "ascension" to the #1 role and increased targets looks like it had more to do with the elimination of his competition rather than some leap in ability. This year Floyd is back and apparently looking great, a 3rd year wr, also a huge target (6' 5" like VJax), that Rivers will happily throw to if the coverage is right. Add Parker and their 1st round draft pick Davis (they drafted a need and will use him) into the mix and VJax's target/reception total may be a lot lower than many are projecting.

 

[toxicbees]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

I posted this in the VJax thread a few weeks ago...Thought this was interesting. While Floyd was playing through week 13 (prior to his season ending ankle injury) the distribution between Floyd/Vjax was as follows.....Floyd - 12 G - 32 targets - 15 rec - 210 yards - 3 tdsVJax - 12 G - 27 targets - 13 rec - 167 yards - 3 tdsLooks pretty even to me. I'm not saying Floyd will be the "#1" wr but I think many are overlooking his potential cut into VJax's targets. VJax's "ascension" to the #1 role and increased targets looks like it had more to do with the elimination of his competition rather than some leap in ability. This year Floyd is back and apparently looking great, a 3rd year wr, also a huge target (6' 5" like VJax), that Rivers will happily throw to if the coverage is right. Add Parker and their 1st round draft pick Davis (they drafted a need and will use him) into the mix and VJax's target/reception total may be a lot lower than many are projecting.

Floyd is getting drafted way later than VJax right now.

 

[Bri]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

I posted this in the VJax thread a few weeks ago...Thought this was interesting. While Floyd was playing through week 13 (prior to his season ending ankle injury) the distribution between Floyd/Vjax was as follows.....Floyd - 12 G - 32 targets - 15 rec - 210 yards - 3 tdsVJax - 12 G - 27 targets - 13 rec - 167 yards - 3 tdsLooks pretty even to me. I'm not saying Floyd will be the "#1" wr but I think many are overlooking his potential cut into VJax's targets. VJax's "ascension" to the #1 role and increased targets looks like it had more to do with the elimination of his competition rather than some leap in ability. This year Floyd is back and apparently looking great, a 3rd year wr, also a huge target (6' 5" like VJax), that Rivers will happily throw to if the coverage is right. Add Parker and their 1st round draft pick Davis (they drafted a need and will use him) into the mix and VJax's target/reception total may be a lot lower than many are projecting.

Floyd is getting drafted way later than VJax right now.

Is it wrong to project much for the Chargers 2nd WR though?

 

[Maurile Tremblay]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

I posted this in the VJax thread a few weeks ago...Thought this was interesting. While Floyd was playing through week 13 (prior to his season ending ankle injury) the distribution between Floyd/Vjax was as follows.....

Floyd - 12 G - 32 targets - 15 rec - 210 yards - 3 tds

VJax - 12 G - 27 targets - 13 rec - 167 yards - 3 tds

Looks pretty even to me. I'm not saying Floyd will be the "#1" wr but I think many are overlooking his potential cut into VJax's targets. VJax's "ascension" to the #1 role and increased targets looks like it had more to do with the elimination of his competition rather than some leap in ability. This year Floyd is back and apparently looking great, a 3rd year wr, also a huge target (6' 5" like VJax), that Rivers will happily throw to if the coverage is right. Add Parker and their 1st round draft pick Davis (they drafted a need and will use him) into the mix and VJax's target/reception total may be a lot lower than many are projecting.

Floyd is getting drafted way later than VJax right now.

Is it wrong to project much for the Chargers 2nd WR though?

There are two problems here:1. Yes, it's probably wrong to project much for the Chargers 2nd WR; and

2. Nobody even knows who the second WR is. Whichever guy you project to be the number two WR could easily end up being the number four WR.

I'm staying away from any Chargers WRs this year aside from V.Jackson.

 

[LHUCKS]

I'm staying away from any Chargers WRs this year aside from V.Jackson.

This is me.

 

[toxicbees]

What is Floyd's ADP right now? If Floyd really is the favorite to start, it seems like he has some tremendous value compared to Vincent Jackson and where he is going in drafts.

I posted this in the VJax thread a few weeks ago...Thought this was interesting. While Floyd was playing through week 13 (prior to his season ending ankle injury) the distribution between Floyd/Vjax was as follows.....Floyd - 12 G - 32 targets - 15 rec - 210 yards - 3 tdsVJax - 12 G - 27 targets - 13 rec - 167 yards - 3 tdsLooks pretty even to me. I'm not saying Floyd will be the "#1" wr but I think many are overlooking his potential cut into VJax's targets. VJax's "ascension" to the #1 role and increased targets looks like it had more to do with the elimination of his competition rather than some leap in ability. This year Floyd is back and apparently looking great, a 3rd year wr, also a huge target (6' 5" like VJax), that Rivers will happily throw to if the coverage is right. Add Parker and their 1st round draft pick Davis (they drafted a need and will use him) into the mix and VJax's target/reception total may be a lot lower than many are projecting.

Floyd is getting drafted way later than VJax right now.

Is it wrong to project much for the Chargers 2nd WR though?

History would say no, but this is a new offense, so I think we'll have to wait and see. In the past, Norv offenses have favored TEs and pass catching RBs. Even more so, once Norv gets into the red zone. But if the offense is firing on all cylinders there should be more than enough for a WR2 to have value in 12 team dynasty leagues.

 

[Banger]

you get a limited window in this league to win a Championship...SD is built to win a SB, every year they do not is a wasted chance.

While every year brings a wasted chance for 31 teams, it is worth pointing out that 20 of the 24 Charger starters (including punter and kicker) are signed through the next three seasons. Keeping the team intact in 2010 might be a challenge (Rivers, Merriman, McNeil, Castillo, and V.Jackson all become free agents if they're not extended before then). But I think this team has a solid three-year window, at least. (And AJ said he does plan to keep all five of those players.)

Just found this on another board...Yet for all the accolades Smith and Executive Vice President Ed McGuire have received for having locked up 26 players (including 20 of 24 starters) through at least the next three seasons, a perfect storm of contract negotiations is gathering on the horizon.Among the contracts that run out after 2009 are those of quarterback Philip Rivers, left tackle Marcus McNeill and linebacker Shawne Merriman. That's three Pro Bowlers at big-money positions. Additionally, Rivers and McNeill are represented by Sexton, and Merriman picked up agent Tom Condon this offseason. Both agents are among the biggest in the business, and neither exchanges holiday cards with Smith.Also up after '09: defensive end Luis Castillo and receiver Vincent Jackson.Smith would like to keep all five players and is confident he can. He has, after all, locked up reigning NFL MVP LaDainian Tomlinson through 2011, All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates through 2010 and linebacker Shaun Phillips and left guard Kris Dielman through 2012. Under Smith, the Chargers have been the most successful team in the NFL at signing core players to long-term deals. To that end, Castillo will not be cheap either. Based on 2007 franchise-tag numbers – the average of the five highest-paid players at each position – top quarterbacks, offensive linemen (tackles) and defensive ends are the league's most handsomely rewarded players.“Then there's Merriman,” one agent said of the linebacker who led the NFL in sacks last season. “He's the best defensive player in the league. . . . I'd just assume he's unsignable at this point.”It is likely that one of the players will have the franchise tag put on him in 2010, and the cheapest to franchise likely will be Merriman. Linebackers had the sixth-highest franchise number this year.