The Chargers made a plethora of splash moves last offseason, but arguably their most valuable free-agent acquisition was the signing of Morgan Fox.
Fox was inked to a veteran minimum contract in May to supply a pass-rush presence from the interior part of the defensive line.
And as soon as Joey Bosa had a groin injury in Week 3, the defense needed pass rushers to step up, and Fox was the one to make significant contributions in that department.
Fox set a career-high in sacks in the victory over the Rams, with 6.5. His previous best was 5.5, which he set with the Rams when Brandon Staley was their defensive coordinator in 2020.
“When I think of Morgan [Fox], I think of a glue guy, I think of tough and rugged, a playmaker, versatile, do whatever it takes to help the team win,” Staley said. “He just set his career high for sacks.
He has been such an incredible addition to our locker room. You guys are all seeing what I saw back in 2020, except now he’s just better. He’s just an even better player. He’s been a big factor in our ability to play defense at a high level.”
Fox is second on the team with 39 pressures, trailing only Khalil Mack. He ranks fifth among qualified interior defensive linemen in Pro Football Focus’ pass rush productivity.
Additionally, while lauded for his pass-rush prowess, Fox’s play against the run continuously improved after being put into a starting role. He has 24 run stops on the season.
The Chargers signed Fox to a one-year deal worth nearly south of $2 million. But his performances from this season will garner something heftier than that this upcoming offseason.
Given that Los Angeles’ defensive line room is predominantly filled with run stoppers, Fox should be a priority due to his ability to get after the quarterback. Plus, at just 28 years old, Fox is still in his prime.
The team’s success from this season and his long-time connection with Staley could ensure Fox stays in L.A.