Coming off a disastrous 2019 season, Chargers general manager Tom Telesco knew that changes needed to be made to the roster in order to avoid falling into the same hole.
Telesco made a handful of solid signings in free agency and brought in a great haul through the draft. But there might’ve not been a smarter move by him than acquiring four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Chris Harris Jr.
Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox laid out the smartest move each team made this offseason, and for him, the signing of Harris was the one that knocked it out of the park.
The Los Angeles Chargers may have drafted quarterback Justin Herbert to be their future. However, if the Chargers are going to be successful in 2020, it’s likely to come on the strength of their defense.
With players like Joey Bosa, Melvin Ingram, Derwin James and rookie linebacker Kenneth Murray in the fold, L.A. has the potential to field an elite defense. The addition of free-agent cornerback Chris Harris Jr. makes that defense even better.
Harris may be 30 years old, but he’s a productive and versatile defensive back. He can play outside or at nickel, and he racked up 16 passes defended and four interceptions over the last two seasons.
Getting Harris for two years at $17 million was a great deal and a sharp move.
I pegged the signing of offensive tackle Bryan Bulaga as being Telesco’s best acquisition this offseason. But acquiring Harris came in right behind at No. 2 on the list.
The addition of Harris gives Los Angeles the label of being one of the top defenses in the NFL, which features the likes of defensive end Joey Bosa, Melvin Ingram, linebackers Drue Tranquill and Kenneth Murray, safety Derwin James and cornerbacks Casey Hayward and Desmond King.
The Chiefs have won the division the past four seasons, which has been accomplished primarily with their high-powered offense. In order to stay toe-to-toe with Kansas City, Los Angeles’ defense has been to be stout, and the acquisition takes last year’s No. 6 overall defense to a near elite status.
Harris will be a key piece in the back end of the defense, stating that he will play both in the slot and outside, perhaps even “some emergency safety” this upcoming season. No matter what scheme or role he’s in, Harris’ presence will be evident on a weekly basis.