San Diego Chargers, Defensive Team/Special Teams

July 9, 2009 @ 00:00:00

By KFFL Staff
Edited by KFFL Staff

San Diego Chargers Defensive Team/Special Teams

Bye Wk	Tot TD	Spec Tm TD	Fum TD	Int TD	Pass Int	Fum Rec	Sacks	Safety
5	2	2	1	1	19	12	44	0

Pros: Nine talented starters are returning, and defensive coordinator Ron Rivera's aggressive 3-4 system will place a fantasy friendly emphasis on sacks and takeaways. The return of linebacker Shawne Merriman (knee surgery) and his 12.5 sacks from 2007 will provide a huge boost. Cornerback Antonio Cromartie (broken hip) played hurt during the entire 2008 season, so he should improve on his paltry two interceptions. Rookie defensive end/linebacker Larry English should bolster the pass rush. San Diego has amassed 12 returns for touchdowns in the last two seasons. Thanks to the presence of running back/returner Darren Sproles, the Chargers feature top-10 punt and kickoff return units.

Cons: Merriman risks an injury relapse and has too big an impact on their defensive aggressiveness. Sacks fell from 42 in 2007 to just 28 in 2008 without Merriman, and takeaways dropped from a league-high 48 in 2007 to just 24 in 2008 (15 interceptions and nine recovered fumbles). The Chargers ranked No. 15 in scoring (21.7 points allowed per game) and a dismal No. 31 versus the pass. The play of the secondary - especially safety Clinton Hart - is a worry. The free-agent loss of defensive end Igor Olshansky (Dallas Cowboys) weakens the defensive line.

Fantasy tip: Assuming the Merriman-led pass rush bounces back and the Cromartie-led secondary holds up, San Diego should improve in 2009, offering top-10 upside potential. Because of their poor 2008 showing, the Chargers' average draft position has dropped to the late 12th or early 13th round. That's an OK time to select a top-shelf defense if you choose to do so, and if you can get the takeaway-happy Bolts here, that would suffice.

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