Chargers News: Chargers Potential Free-Agent Targets
As Training Camps around the league are heating up, the San Diego Chargers could look to add some depth to their roster. Fringe players for teams are released, injuries happen, and teams look for depth through current Free-Agents. Let’s discuss some of the moves the Chargers could make to add value to their current roster.
Yesterday, the Chargers got their first bit of bad news as DE Tenny Palepoi suffered a foot fracture that will force him to miss about two months.
This is a big blow for the Bolts who entered Training Camp with questions on the defensive front and this will be a huge blow for the positions depth. He appeared in all 16 games last season as a rookie.
Tony McDaniels, DT
The Seattle Seahawks released veteran defensive tackle McDaniels today to make enough room financially to sign Russell Wilson and LB Bobby Wagner. He is a 10-year vet that had the 15th highest defensive tackle grade last season according to Pro Football Focus.
He should absolutely be on the Chargers’ radar and they could always use more depth on the D-line. With a young core, McDaniels could come in a be a mentor for guys like Ryan Carrethers, Darius Philon and Corey Liuget.
Geno Hayes, LB
The former Jacksonville Jaguar has yet to find a home this offseason thanks to some speculation about the health of his knees. The 27-year old had 25 starts over the last two seasons with the Jags, producing 128 tackles, three sacks, two picks, and two forced fumbles. He tweeted out in July that his knees were just fine.
The Chargers could sign him to the minimum for Training Camp and see how his health during the physical and on the field. Â Another veteran presence could be beneficial for the Chargers front seven.
Dwight Freeney, OLB
A familiar face for Chargers’ fans, Freeney spent the last two seasons with the Bolts. Injuries derailed the impact he was capable of as he started just 13 games (appeared in 20), combining for four sacks. The Chargers could take another look at bringing him back although it appears that ship has sailed for them. It’s been rumored the Seahawks and Cardinals are interested in him currently.
He was a great locker room presence and was looked up to by the younger guys on the team. With both him and Jarrett Johnson gone, there’s a whole for leadership on the current roster.
Jake Long, OT
The former Pro Bowler has battled two ACL tears in his right knee the last two seasons but has still sparked the interest of numerous teams this summer. The first overall pick of the 2008 draft certainly has had an uphill battle to get healthy but has visited the New York Giants twice and seemed to check out psychically. Could be an interesting candidate for the Chargers to look into if they feel like they need more depth along the O-Line.
Tony McDaniels should be signed by the Chargers, I think that’d be a great signing. These other players certainly have to prove themselves healthy but could provide depth at positions that are usually filled with injuries and inconsistant play for the Bolts.
Let me know if there’s anyone you think the Chargers should take a look at by commenting below!
Bolt Up.
Nick was born and raised in San Diego where he became a Chargers and Padres fan, attending numerous home games throughout the years with his dad. He then went on to attend college at the University of Arizona. There he earned his degree in marketing and now lives in San Francisco where he dreams of the the sunny beaches of San Diego. Bear Down.