Every year, the Chargers send a few players to the Pro Bowl.
Sure, awards are the more highly coveted recognition for players, but Pro Bowl selections do matter. The game isn’t as popular to watch anymore, but in a league with over 1,600 players, being in that top 5 percent is an honor.
There is a lot of talent on this year’s roster and the Bolts will likely send some to the annual all-star game that hasn’t been there before.
Here are four that could find their way to Las Vegas, NV at the end of the season:
RB Austin Ekeler
Like a handful of other Chargers players, Ekeler is among those who’s not given enough credit for what his production on the field. With his multi-dimensional skillset, Ekeler has totaled 1,901 yards on the ground and 2,079 receiving yards as well as 25 touchdowns in four seasons.
With a competent offensive line and an offensive coordinator in Joe Lombardi, who has historically gotten his running backs involved in the passing game more than almost any other team, Ekeler could be in for one of his best seasons yet.
CB Michael Davis
Davis is one of the league’s most underrated corners, and he is bound for a big season.
Last season, Davis slowed some of the league’s top receivers and made a few big plays in critical situations. He was on the field for 92% of the team’s defensive snaps, logging 64 tackles, 14 passes defensed and three interceptions, all of which were personal bests.
Davis’ versatility in coverage, length and athleticism make him an excellent fit for head coach Brandon Staley’s system.
LB Kenneth Murray
Murray is an ascending player, who could truly come into his own in a defense that’s going to play to his strengths.
After being handed a heavy load in his rookie season, Murray finished the 2020 campaign with 107 total tackles (most by rookie since 2000), one sack, five tackles for loss and one quarterback hit.
Looking ahead to this upcoming season, Staley’s defense will allow him to flourish as a run defender and a blitzer. The team is going to get him playing more downhill, which is what he had success with at Oklahoma.
Knowing that this is what you can expect from Murray moving forward, don’t be surprised if he is top-3 in tackles next season.
C Corey Linsley
The fact that Linsley earned All-Pro honors is far more superior than being named to the Pro Bowl. But since entering the league in 2014, Linsley has still yet to make the trip.
Starting 99 games since his rookie season, Linsley has been a solid contributor up front.
Linsley helped the Packers tie for second in the NFL in fewest sacks allowed and was part of the top-scoring offense last season.
With a combination of athleticism, movement skills and football intelligence, he is a key piece to stabilize the interior part of Los Angeles’ offensive line.