Tag: Chargers defense

Chargers 2023 roster review: CB Asante Samuel Jr.

Asante Samuel Jr. looks to show improvement in run defense as he enters Year 3.

Training camp is nearing, and with a few more weeks of dead time during the quietest part of the NFL offseason, Chargers Wire is endeavoring to document each of Los Angeles’ players before it kicks off.

Chargers cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. is entering the third season of his NFL career.

Samuel served as the outside corner opposite Michael Davis after J.C. Jackson tore the patellar tendon in his right knee in Week 7 last season. It was an up-and-down campaign for Samuel, as he allowed six touchdowns and struggled as a run defender.

Samuel finished the 2022 season with 57 tackles, one tackle for loss, two interceptions, including three in the Wild Card game against the Jaguars, a fumble recovery and 11 passes defended.

With Jackson still working his way back to full health, Samuel should see time as the starter. But once Jackson returns, he would presumably replace Samuel. Samuel could move back in the slot and rotate with Ja’Sir Taylor depending on the matchups and packages on a week-to-week basis.

Contract: Samuel signed a 4-year, $7,222,946 contract, with a $2,613,052 signing bonus, $3,601,368 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $1,805,737.

Acquired: The Chargers drafted Samuel in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft (No. 47 overall).

Quote: Derwin James on Samuel:

“To me, football is just confidence and knowing your job. I feel like if you know your job and you know it well enough, and you’re confident to go do it, you can do it. Year three with Asante, I feel like he is going to have a lot more confidence, for sure.”

Highlight:

Reviewing Chargers’ 2022 run defense, how it can improve in 2023

The Chargers’ run defense hit rock bottom last year. Here is a look at how they can improve in that department.

The Chargers’ run defense finally hit rock bottom last year. With a plethora of injuries on the defensive side of the ball and some poor tackling performances, the 2022 Chargers gave up 144.2 rushing yards per game.

Purely looking at the league rankings, Los Angeles, technically speaking, moved from 30th worst run defense in 2021 to 27th in 2022. But that rushing yards per game figure mentioned is more than the team has allowed in over 20 years. The 2003 Chargers allowed the next most at 139.6 rushing yards per game.

While the yards total is enough to suggest how bad the run defense was, figuring out what kind of runs were successful can lead us to a more layered diagnosis. The Bolts’ real struggle of 2022 was runs to the outside:

Of course, no one will argue that opponents averaging 4.5+ yards per carry on inside runs is good. It’s below league average but not historically significant. The health of Austin Johnson will be important in that respect.

On outside runs, however, per MIBPJ’s data, the 2022 Chargers allowed a whopping 8.73 yards per attempt. Out of 1632 unique team season run gaps since 2006, outside runs vs. the 2022 Chargers ranks last in run gap performance since the data has been tracked.

Let’s say the data tracks with almost whichever Chargers game is used as a sample from last season:

The diagnosis? The EDGE duo of Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack did not perform at the level the Chargers expected, which led to more runs getting to the second + third levels of the defense.

Bosa was forced to miss most of the season after he left the Jacksonville game with an injury. His absence was brutally felt. Mack, unfortunately, had his worst season as a run defender in 2022 via PFF run defense grade and recorded the fewest run stops of his career in an entire season. The former Bear also finished with a 19.2% missed tackle rate.

So with the Bosa and Mack duo not working out in 2022, more outside runs got to the second and third levels. The Chargers’ run defenders and tacklers were relatively porous there as well. Combining the linebackers with the secondary for a moment, Derwin James and Michael Davis were the only Chargers players graded over 60+ in run defense on PFF. And when Los Angeles did snuff out a play properly, missed tackle rates were pretty problematic throughout the defense.

To some extent, the Chargers have recognized their problems against the run. Eric Kendricks is coming off of one of his best seasons as a run defender in Minnesota. Replacing Drue Tranquill with his production vs. the ground game is an upgrade.

The Kendricks signing will set the tone for the defense, especially given that he’ll have Brandon Staley’s green dot play caller responsibilities. But it will not be enough to fix the Chargers’ issues on the interior or exterior by itself.

As mentioned earlier, the Chargers missed Bosa in several respects last season. He needs to stay healthy for LA to have a shot at getting the run defense going in the right direction. And even though he’s not what he used to be in Oakland and Chicago, I’d bet on a slight return to form for Mack if Bosa is available to play on the other side of the line.

Separate from this, the Chargers need their other players to step up and make their tackles when runs get past the first level. Whether Kenneth Murray takes a step forward in this regard as a starter in a contract year will determine a lot. Past solely the linebacker room, the Chargers’ secondary also needs to be more consistent in the same manner.

Derwin James on Asante Samuel Jr.’s growth: ‘He is going to have a lot more confidence’

Derwin James said that he expects Asante Samuel Jr. to play with more confidence next season.

Confidence is key for defenders in the NFL, especially those on teams like the Chargers who have to play the likes of Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs twice a year.

Nobody knows this better than the All-Pro safety Derwin James, who has made a name for himself with bold and selfless play since entering the league as a first-round pick in 2018.

James spoke to reporters about a variety of topics. When questioned about the development of cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., he pointed to his teammate’s confidence as an area of potential growth.

“To me, football is just confidence and knowing your job,” James explained to the media. “I feel like if you know your job and you know it well enough, and you’re confident to go do it, you can do it. Year three with Asante, I feel like he is going to have a lot more confidence, for sure.”

Samuel served as the outside corner opposite Michael Davis after J.C. Jackson went down with his season-ending knee injury. It was an up-and-down campaign for Samuel, as he allowed six touchdowns and struggled as a run defender.

Samuel finished the 2022 season with 57 tackles, one tackle for loss, two interceptions, including three in the playoff game against the Jaguars, a fumble recovery and 11 passes defended.

Whether this newfound confidence will come to pass for Samuel will have to wait to be seen until the regular season, but an endorsement from James is sure to play into the young cornerback’s self-esteem, at a bare minimum.

With so much on the line and expectations for the Chargers at an all-time high, James and Samuel will have to work together to bring Los Angeles its first playoff win since 2018.

But, with the collective talent they possess and a coaching staff determined to bring the team success next season, perhaps confidence in their game is all the members of the secondary need.

Khalil Mack on new Chargers DC Derrick Ansley: ‘He’s excited’

Khalil Mack noted Derrick Ansley’s excitement to take over as the team’s defensive coordinator.

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.

LB Eric Kendricks sounds off on what led to decision to sign with Chargers

Linebacker Eric Kendricks spoke to the media on Monday.

The Chargers made just one external free agent signing, adding linebacker Eric Kendricks.

Kendricks returned to California, where he was born and played college football at UCLA after spending the past eight seasons with the Vikings.

Kendricks, 31, spoke with the media for the first time on Tuesday as the offseason program began, and elaborated on why he decided to come home.

“Honestly, they’re a good team,” Kendricks said. “They’re contenders, they have a good quarterback, a great coaching staff. Just having conversations with Coach Staley, I think the first time we talked, we maybe talked for an hour and a half. It was 11 p.m. and I got to know his personality a lot.”

Kendricks reunites with new linebackers coach Jeff Howard, who replaced Michael Wilhoite in that role. Howard spent seven seasons on Minnesota’s defensive staff as an assistant from 2015 to 2019, which was Kendrick’s first five years with the team.

“I’m glad that I can fit into this program, into this system, but also, I don’t have to do too much as I come in. I can get to know the guys, get to know the leaders on the team, like Khalil, and things like that and just play my role.”

Kendricks is one of the more decorated veteran linebackers in this league. And Brandon Staley couldn’t pass up on the opportunity to add not only his play-making to the positional room but his experience and leadership to replace Drue Tranquill, who signed with the Chiefs.

“This is my ninth year in the league. I’ve seen a lot. I’ve done a lot. Hopefully, my experiences can help everybody else around me. Like I said, I’m not pushing for that. I’m just going to come in here, be myself and play the game that I love to play.”

Chargers 2022 season in review: Assessing the play of Los Angeles’ cornerbacks

After J.C. Jackson went down, Michael Davis stepped up and had an outstanding season in 2022.

In the modern pass-first NFL, solid play from cornerbacks is a must, and the Chargers have found some skillful players at the position in recent years. Asante Samuel Jr. was drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL draft. And with the addition of J.C. Jackson via free agency last offseason, pundits expected big things from the Chargers’ secondary in 2022.

Signed on a five-year, $82.5 million deal, Jackson’s season ended after suffering a ruptured patellar tendon back on Oct. 24 against the Seahawks. Before getting hurt, Jackson left much to be desired as he was working his way back from off-season ankle surgery and struggled to get acclimated with the coverage concepts in Brandon Staley’s defense. He finished his shortened season with 15 tackles and two passes defended in five games.

In Jackson’s place, Michael Davis was thrust back into the starting role on the outside and looked like a rejuvenated player after having a down season in 2021, locking wide receivers down and getting his hands on the ball. In 12 games started, Davis had a career-high 15 passes defended. So what went from being pegged as a potential cap casualty this offseason turned into a possible contract extension for Davis.

While their modest ball production left something to be desired, Samuel’s three-interception game against the Jaguars in the playoffs was a legendary display of dominance that won’t soon be forgotten. Despite this excellent showing, he managed just two interceptions in the regular season and made 48 solo tackles, tying for first place in the category among Los Angeles’ cornerbacks.

Bryce Callahan, who was also signed to a one-year deal last offseason, led Los Angeles in interceptions, coming down with three on the year to add to his 47 combined tackles. Callahan proved to be a major contributor to the defense, starting 11 games in 15 appearances to help lift the Chargers’ secondary to dominant performances.

Among others who saw snaps for the team at cornerback in 2022 was Ja’Sir Taylor. The Chargers drafted Taylor as a core special teams player, which he proved to be. However, Taylor ended up seeing some playing time on the defensive side of the ball toward the back end of the season.

Taylor had some lapses in coverage, especially when he had to play as an outside corner. But his standout performance came in the big primetime win over the Dolphins, where he locked down Jaylen Waddle. Additionally, he came on strong as a tackler in open space and a blitzer. With Callahan set to be a free agent in March, that could lead to a more prominent role for Taylor in his second season.

Kemon Hall and Deane Leonard should be considered developmental depth and core special teamers for the next season.

Don’t be surprised if the Chargers invest in the cornerback position throughout the coming offseason, but expect the dollar amount of any moves to be relatively minimal. With their three starting spots locked down by Davis, Samuel and Jackson, anyone they might add would be competing for looks in dime packages and other defensive-back-heavy sets on passing downs.

Chargers HC Brandon Staley heaps praise on Jaguars RB Travis Etienne

Jaguars RB Travis Etienne is a player the Chargers will need to hone in on.

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley is looking to get his team their first playoff win since 2018 in their Wild Card matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this weekend.

In his comments to the media, he made it clear that Jaguars running back Travis Etienne will be a significant threat to his defense in the game and told reporters about the respect he has for his skillset.

“[Travis] Etienne is a really good back,” Staley said. “I think you have seen it all season long. Had a lot of respect for him coming out. He is a complete back. I think that is what he has shown.

He can run between the tackles, outside on the perimeter. He is a good pass-catcher. He does a good job in pass protection, for a young player. He was a high pick in the first round, and you can see all of that talent on display, especially as the season progressed. He has been one of the keys, I think, for their football team, playing at a high level down the stretch.”

Etienne, the second-year back, finished the season with 1,121 rushing yards, with an average of 5.1 yards per rush attempt and five touchdowns.

Etienne does his most damage outside the tackles, particularly on the left side, where he averages 8.2 yards per carry (5.35 yards after contact per attempt) and has seven carries over ten yards.

The Chargers have been stronger against the run in recent weeks, but they showed to be vulnerable to it in the loss against the Broncos, where they allowed 205 rushing yards.

Therefore, the defense must be stout at the point of attack and seal edges up front in the trenches, and second and third-level defenders must take proper angles to the football and wrap up and tackle in the open field.

While Etienne will be a concern for the Chargers’ coaching staff heading into this matchup, Jacksonville’s well-rounded offense has plenty of other weapons to make Los Angeles pay if they are given an opening.

These stats show how dominant Chargers defense has been

The Chargers defense is at its best that it’s been all season.

The Chargers have won their last four straight games, and while the team is firing on all cylinders in all three phases, the defense has been at its best.

Since Week 14, Los Angeles is first in points allowed per game (11), total yards allowed per game (238.3), passing yards allowed per game (124.8), opponent’s third-down conversion percentage (23.3) and first downs allowed per game (13.3).

The most significant factor in the turnaround is head coach Brandon Staley. Staley has adjusted the scheme and play calling since the bye week. And the players at all three levels have understood their assignments and have executed.

After the season-ending injuries to Austin Johnson, Christian Covington and Otito Ogbonnia, Sebastian Joseph-Day, Breiden Fehoko and Morgan Fox have been integral in the improvement against the run.

The pass rush is piecing together. The pressure from Khalil Mack, Fox, Kyle Van Noy, and the designed blitzes has been vital to the pass defense. Joey Bosa is back after being out since Week 3 with a groin injury.

In the middle of the defense, Drue Tranquill has been rock solid against the run, in coverage and as a pass rusher.

On the back end, the coverage has been strong. Most notably, Michael Davis, who is playing excellent football. Davis has 13 passed defended, more than any other cornerback in the league since Week 9.

Additionally, Nasir Adderley and Alohi Gilman have come into their own and taken advantage of their opportunities. Derwin James is back after missing a few games with a quad injury and concussion.

With the copious amounts of great offenses in the playoffs, Los Angeles will need to carry this defensive dominance when it begins if they want to make a run.

Chargers’ Renaldo Hill heaps high praise on Drue Tranquill

Renaldo Hill said that Drue Tranquill has been a steady presence as a leader for the defense.

In a season where the Los Angeles Chargers have faced their share of adversity, linebacker Drue Tranquill has been a rock for the team through good times and bad.

Defensive coordinator Renaldo Hill went out of his way to address Tranquill’s leadership abilities in his comments to the media on Thursday.

“He has continued to build as a leader,” Hill explained. “Obviously, we needed more this year than any time just because at the times when [S] Derwin [James Jr.] is out, Joey [Bosa] is out. Having somebody that has command behind the ball, making sure he that gets guys lined up and knows the defense in and out.

“We knew those moments would make us stronger and he received it well. He didn’t shy away from it. Those are the things that you want in a leader, to take charge when it’s time to take charge. It could have been at that point of the season where it could have went either way, but having good leadership to take control of those situations, I think that is what Drue [Tranquill] has been able to bring to this ball club.”

Tranquill has shined as the man in the middle of the defense, leading the team in tackles with 140, and has nine tackles for loss. He’s also been viable in pass coverage, with four passes defended and an interception. Additionally, Tranquill has come on as a blitzer, as he’s third on the team in sacks with five.

Tranquill will be a free agent after his season, and what he’s shown on the field should garner a new contract with the Chargers.

With just one game left in the regular season, Tranquill’s steady presence in Los Angeles’ linebacking corps will be an asset for the team heading into the win-or-go-home part of their schedule.

Chargers’ Joey Bosa reveals battle with food poisoning ahead of return in Week 17

Joey Bosa had a little setback in his first game since Week 3.

Chargers star edge defender Joey Bosa returned to the field last Sunday in the victory over the Rams. Bosa had been out since Week 3 with a groin injury that he had to have surgery on.

Bosa was on a snap count restriction to get back to the speed of live-game action. He played 24 defensive snaps and logged three pressures.

While it was refreshing to see him back on the field, refreshed was not entirely how Bosa felt in his return. He had food poisoning that hit him the night before the game.

“I had gotten food poisoning on Saturday, so it was a kind of a rough outing,” Bosa said. “But other than that, my groin felt good. My mind was kind of somewhere else, luckily, so I wasn’t worrying about my groin as much.

“Kind of crappy luck, pun intended, with my first game back. My girlfriend is not going to be my chef ever again.”

Bosa is not entirely sure, but he felt like it was some fish that caused him to feel sick. He became dehydrated but was able to make a quick recovery with a six-hour turnaround from kickoff.

“Felt a bit weak,” Bosa said. “There’s a lot of variables going on, so it’s hard to know why I was feeling that way. But I think I was definitely a little run down from being dehydrated and not getting some food in me, and obviously being my first game back, but I thought I felt pretty good, need to get my wind back.”

Bosa added that it felt good to get reps again to build up ahead of the playoffs. He expects to receive more snaps this weekend against the Broncos than he did in Week 17. Then, he should be back up to a full workload when the playoffs start.

“It’s super exciting,” Bosa said on the playoffs. “Last time I was in the playoffs, it was the same deal with my foot injury. But like I said last week, I’m feeling much better this year and much more confident going into these games than I did that year.”

Bosa has been to the playoffs once, back in 2018, when the Chargers beat the Ravens in the Wild Card round but lost to the Patriots in the Divisional round. That year, he had a foot injury that he sustained in training camp, re-injured in Week 1, and didn’t return until Week 11.