The Chargers’ hopes for serious playoff contention in 2023 hinge on the play of their defense, which will be led by first-year coordinator Derrick Ansley next season.
Despite retaining nearly every key starter in the offseason, the team will face an uphill battle in the loaded AFC. Still, hopes are high that they can rise to the top at OTAs this week, and one veteran, in particular, seemed bullish on the new leadership that Los Angeles has in place.
Khalil Mack told reporters on Wednesday about his thoughts on the matter, giving Anlsey a ringing endorsement.
Ansley, Mack said, was quick to reach out to him after his promotion to defensive coordinator, formerly held by Renaldo Hill, and has carried an infectious enthusiasm with him to the Chargers’ offseason program.
“He pulled me in right away, we had a conversation,” Mack explained of Ansley’s transition to coordinator. “We chopped it up. You could tell that he’s excited to be in that position. He is going to make the most of it, as well, and try to get the best out of all of his guys on defense.”
Given the defensive star power that Los Angeles hosts, it wouldn’t be a stretch to project that they could be one of the best units in the league if players manage to stay healthy through the regular season and into the playoffs.
Ansley will need to do his best to manage workloads, adjust on the fly, and get creative to live up to Mack’s expectations and bring the Chargers to postseason glory in 2023.