Chargers Wire’s Gavino Borquez predicts six Chargers who could be stars on ‘Hard Knocks: Los Angeles’.
HBO’s Hard Knocks: Los Angeles is set to premiere tonight. Ahead of the first episode, I make my predictions for six Chargers players who could be the stars of this year’s five-episode series.
1. WR Keenan Allen
Allen has been under-looked for the majority of his professional career, but the 28-year old should have no problem earning the spotlight. Expect to see his flashy route-running often, but his infectious personality will be on display, too.
2. QB Justin Herbert
Back in 2016, Rams’ Jared Goff got a good chunk of camera time as it was his first year as a pro. Four years later, first-round pick QB Justin Herbert will likely get the same amount of attention. Herbert isn’t loud by any means, and he’s known for his introverted personality. But how he handles an NFL huddle, the competition between him and Tyrod Taylor and how he interacts with his new teammates will be showcased.
3. RB Austin Ekeler
Now with Melvin Gordon, Ekeler takes over as the lead back for the Chargers. Following a breakout season, the 25-year old is starting to get the attention that he deserves. For those that are living under a rock, they will get familiar with Ekeler’s outgoing personality and hardcore addiction to working out really quick.
4. S Derwin James
James has become a household name for his dominance on the gridiron in his first two seasons as a pro. But not many people, outside of fans, may know him for his ra-ra type of personality. James is an outspoken person, who always has a smile on his face and is always making his teammates laugh.
5. EDGE Joey Bosa
Bosa became the richest defensive player in the NFL just a couple of weeks ago, so there’s a 100% chance that there will be footage of him signing his extension. But outside of that, the money man’s laidback and humorous personality could get quite a bit of camera time. His partner-in-crime – Melvin Ingram – is one to watch for, as well.
6. K Michael Badgley
Hard Knocks is notorious for shining the spotlight on players who aren’t necessarily superstars on the gridiron. This may be a bit of a stretch, but Badgley also known as “Money Badger” has your typical California vibe, which could catch the attention of the producers of the show.