Many fans and analysts were disappointed that the Chargers didn’t add to their stable of pass rushers in last week’s draft. Fret no longer.
On Thursday, Los Angeles agreed to terms with veteran hybrid linebacker Kyle Van Noy.
The 31-year-old Van Noy has spent time in Detroit, New England, and Miami, where he’s racked up 28.5 career sacks, 424 total tackles, and forced ten turnovers: 7 fumbles and three interceptions.
In 2021 with the Patriots, Van Noy had five sacks, 66 tackles, one forced fumble, and one interception.
Like Kyler Fackrell a season ago, Van Noy will contribute to the Chargers as a rotational pass rusher behind superstars Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack.
While he’s been the victim of cost-cutting moves in his last two stops, there’s reason to believe that Van Noy can be productive in the right environment. I doubt LA is giving him $51 million over four years, as Miami did in 2020, or $13.2 million over two seasons, as New England did last season.
On a cheaper deal, Van Noy’s production represents a tremendous value considering the other EDGE rushers available at this stage of the offseason.
Van Noy also has familiarity with at least one current Chargers staffer, having spent his first two seasons going up against Joe Lombardi’s offense in practice as a Lion.