The chargers have many free agents but only a few new faces. A few new faces were also signed to future/reserve contracts. The NFL also signed DTs Andrew Brown, Forrest Merrill, LB Cole Christiansen, and DB Ben LeDuca. Of these new faces, only two have been on the roster in recent years.
Six undrafted free agents have been retained by the Chargers for the 16th consecutive year. The team also signed eight players to its practice squad, including defensive tackle Jared Gaither. Although the team will have many receivers and defensive linemen, they will still need to sign many free agents. The Chargers will also have undrafted free agents. They will have six wide receivers and four tight ends on their roster, as well as five running backs.
Phillips is the Chargers’ best safety but other players aren’t as impressive. Jackson is a solid WR but he’s not a long-term solution to a rebuilding Chargers team. Meanwhile, Hester is a 3rd-round draft pick whose play has been disappointing. The Chargers also signed free agents Le’Ron McClain and Jackie Battle. There are no guarantees for the WR position.
The Chargers finished the season with a record of 5-9. The Chargers’ home crowd was their lowest since 2004. The final home game was scheduled for a sellout. This was their first losing season since 2003, with the Chargers going 0-4 against NFC foes. The season’s results forced them to change their coach. However, a win at Super Bowl could increase their chances of winning it.
Atari Bigby, the quarterback of the Chargers, was another notable player. After being cut by two teams, Bigby signed as a free agent in 2005. In his third season (2007), he started 16 games. He was unable to stay healthy and was eventually replaced by Vince Young. He was able turn himself into a standout in special teams and signed with the Seattle Seahawks to fill a similar position last season. He’ll have another chance to play for the Chargers next year.
Five players hail from the Bay Area are on the Chargers roster. They opened their 2012 schedule against Southern Utah in August 28th, and will travel to Buffalo in September 12. Although the Chargers may not be the best team in AFC, they are good enough to be among the best in the league. Humphries was not the only Pro Bowler on the team. They also had two All-Pros on defense.