On The Clock: San Diego Chargers

by Paul Wanecski
For the first time in recent memory, the San Diego Chargers actually have some salary cap space. Estimating $22 million against what projects to be $143 million cap, the time has finally come in San Diego to move on from the stop-gap players they have been forced to sign or retain the past 4 years.

Synopsis:
This organization, on the shoulders of the underrated Phillip Rivers, has been above average for numerous consecutive seasons. The record has never reflected just how dangerous this team could be. Selecting now in the 17th spot of this upcoming NFL draft, they have an opportunity to address a few holes that they are not able to secure in free agency, something that hasn't been the case in the past.

Restructure:
Phillip Rivers enters the last season of his contract this year and under no circumstances do we see the team letting him walk away. His salary cap figure is $17 million, but, extending his deal does not mean they have to restructure this seasons cap hit. Actually, the team could increase his cap figure this year and still have room to address the areas of need and lessen his financial impact in future years.

S Eric Weddle is also entering the last year of his contract. While still a major contributor on the defensive side of the football, contracts given to players like Jarius Byrd will inflate the market value. He should be kept but the team will have to overpay on his value to keep him from hitting the free agent market.

LB Jarrett Johnson, RB Donald Brown and G Chad Rinehart should all find their walking papers, saving $11 million.

Resign:
Four years for T King Dunlap on this line makes quite a bit of sense. While he isn't a Pro Bowl player, he is the consistent force you need on any team.

RB Ryan Mathews will not be back. His injury history and the pending strong free agent running back class make his expendable.

CB Brandon Flowers won't be as inexpensive as last season. He should be retained if possible so the secondary doesn't have to start over.

DE/LB Dwight Freeney and WR Eddie Royal both will have limited value to other teams. Both will be kept around the $3 million mark.

Draft:
The Chargers are an old team. With C Nick Hardwick calling it a career, this will be a high priority for the team to address, but, doing so with the 17th selection may be about 10 spots to high. Look for them to handcuff a 2nd or 3rd round pick with whomever they sign via free agency.

The 1st round will be about either getting a running back like Melvin Gordon (Wisconsin) or hoping one slips while they try to take advantage of this great wide receiver class. Todd Gurley (Georgia) doesn't fit, as his ACL injury occurred in November, so it would be unrealistic to expect him to be available at the start of this NFL season.

Free Agency:
Priority 1, getting a new center. Up until last year, Phillip Rivers had never taken a snap from a different center in his career. Don't expect them to break the bank, an older player will do just fine

They need more depth at the cornerback position. Again, second-tier players will work fine. Cortland Finnegan (if released by the Dolphins) could land here.

Running backs, like Knowshon Moreno (Dolphins) or even Darren McFadden (Raiders) could be a great bridge based on the draft. Players may take a team friendly deal because of no incumbent starter.

Quick Guide to the Rookie Wage Scale