Up next in the team needs features for the draft section are the San Diego Chargers. THN will be filling in all of the needs’ pages throughout April, so keep checking back for your favorite (or least-favorite) team.
San Diego Chargers
2005 Results: 9-7 (3rd in the AFC West)
2006 Projected Cap Status: $24.6M under estimated cap.
2005 Season Recap: 2005 was an up and down year for the Chargers. After trading wins and losses, the Chargers were 8-4 going into the final four games of the season and poised for a push to the playoffs. After a heartbreaking loss at home to Miami, they went on the road and beat the previously unbeaten Colts. That may have been the highlight of their season since they lost the final 2 games easily and were bumped from any playoff contention.
Team needs: What can bring down a 5th ranked offense? How about a 28th ranked secondary. That will be the main focus for getting better in 2006. 2002 first rounder Quentin Jammer has not produce like expected and other first rounders Jamar Fletcher and Sammy Davis have not lived up to their billing either. Look for San Diego to make a play in the draft for Antonio Cromartie – cornerback from Florida State. They also have some age at wide receiver with Keenan McCardell turning 36 before the season begins so a free agent pick up or draft pick at that position is a possibility. With this draft seemingly full of top linebackers, look for them to provide depth at that position.
2006 draft picks:
1st Round #19 overall
2nd Round #50
3rd Round #81
4th Round #113
5th Round #151
6th Round #187
6th Round #188 from Miami
7th Round #225
7th Round #227
Free Agency Status:
UFA lost: DE DeQuincy Scott (Vikings); TE Justin Peelle (Dolphins); WR Reche Caldwell (Patriots); QB Drew Brees (Saints); C-OG Bob Hallen (Browns); LB Ben Leber (Vikings)
RFA re-signed: OG Kris Dielman; LB Stephen Cooper
UFA signed: TE Aaron Shea (Browns); S Marlon McCree (Panthers).
Not tendered as RFA: OT Courtney VanBuren
Not tendered as ERFA: WR Drew Haddad
Cut: TE Duncan Reid; LB Howard Hodges; RB Cal Murray
Edit: This blog was archived in May of 2016 from our original articles database.It was originally posted by Scott Peek