Linebacker alignment
The Chargers’ linebacker positional group has been a work in progress the past few seasons.
The team as prioritized the unit, adding a handful of players throughout the years. Heading into it, they have several intriguing options led by Denzel Perryman, Drue Tranquill and Kenneth Murray, the team’s first-round selection.
How the alignment for each member shakes up in camp will be interesting.
I believe Murray will be the starter at weak-side linebacker (WILL), which was formally played by Thomas Davis last season. I think Perryman plays MIKE on early downs in obvious running situations, and Tranquill will come on in passing situations.
But Murray has missed a lot of time due to COVID-19. So it’s possible the Chargers go with the more experienced look, starting Perryman in the middle and Tranquill at weak-side linebacker, with Murray filling more of a sub-package role.
Los Angeles also added Nick Vigil, the former Bengal, in free agency, and they will have Kyzir White, Malik Jefferson, Cole Christiansen and Asmar Bilal all fighting for playing time.