In the 18th of a 32-part series, we are featuring all National Football League teams with a prediction of where each team will finish within their division, key off-season acquisitions and their top fantasy stars. Here are the Los Angeles Chargers.
Key Off-Season Acquisitions
The Chargers had three notable offseason acquisitions in the offseason. They were guard Mekhi Becton of Highland Springs, Virginia, cornerback Donte Jackson of New Orleans, Louisiana and running back Najee Harris of Martinez, California.
Becton signed a two-year contract worth $20 million. He is joining his third NFL franchise after three seasons with the New York Jets and one season with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he won the Super Bowl in February.
Jackson signed a two-year deal worth $13 million. He is joining his third NFL franchise after six seasons with the Carolina Panthers and one season with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Last season Jackson had 38 combined tackles (28 solo tackles and 10 assisted tackles), two tackles for a loss, five interceptions for 88 yards, eight pass deflections, and one fumble recovery. The two tackles for a loss came in Steelers wins. The first came in a 13-6 Steelers win over the Denver Broncos on September 15, and the second came in a 37-15 Steelers win over the New York Jets on October 20.
Harris signed a one-year deal worth $5.25 million. He played the last four seasons with the Steelers and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2021. Last season, Harris had 263 rushes for 1043 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns, along with 36 catches for 283 receiving yards.
Fantasy Stars
Wide receiver Ladd McConkey of Chatsworth, Georgia is 10th among wide receivers. Last season as a rookie, he had 82 catches for 1149 receiving yards and seven touchdowns.
Kicker Cameron Dicker of Hong Kong is third among kickers. Last season he made 39 of 42 field goals and 33 of 36 converts. The Chargers defense is ranked sixth. Last season they gave up 301 points, the fewest in the NFL.
Projected Finish
This is an excellent AFC West. The Chargers I am projecting to finish third, and will battle for a playoff spot.
