Chargers Listed as Best Fit for FA Edge Looking for Next Stop
The Los Angeles Chargers have been making significant strides to improve their team during this offseason. LA has made some smart and much-needed moves in free agency and the NFL Draft. However, despite their efforts, they still find themselves lacking a key piece: an edge rusher. While they boast star players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, adding another impactful edge rusher could help them reach the next level.
Time is on their side, and there are still some players who are free agents who can help bolster the Chargers in that position. According to NFL expert Kristopher Knox from Bleacher Report, one potential solution for the Chargers could be signing former Pro Bowler Jadeveon Clowney. Although Clowney is not the same player he used to be, he still possesses the talent and ability to contribute significantly.
The Chargers could use Clowney's ability to attack ball carriers off the edge and make plays in the backfield (15 tackles for loss over the last two seasons). In L.A., Clowney could also serve as a rotational rusher to complement Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack.
In nine years in the NFL, he has amassed an impressive stat line, including 320 combo tackles, 90 tackles for loss, 109 quarterback hits, and 43 sacks. His career-high sack count came in 2017 when he recorded 9.5 sacks.
The addition of Clowney to the Chargers' defense would be a substantial boost. With his skill set, he could provide much-needed support and depth to their pass rush. While he may not be the dominant force he was once expected to be, he still has gas left in the tank and can make a meaningful impact on the field.
LA could be fine just without him if they remain healthy with the pieces they currently have; however, an edge rusher would put them in serious contention and is an important need for an elite team. Clowney could be the missing piece that helps the Chargers overcome their obstacles and take their defense to new heights.
