Chargers News: LA Defense Gives Us a Glimpse of Their Potential at Mini-Camp

Can the defense be the answer this year?

Defense wins champions. The old adage still rings true today in an era where offense dominates the headlines. But being able to make that crucial stop on a down still is a calling card for NFL teams. You need playmakers for when the pressure is on and everything is at stake. For the Los Angeles Chargers, they have a bunch of them.

Mini-camp opened for teams across the NFL this week and so far during the Chargers, the defense has shined. This roster was put together with star quarterback Justin Herbert in mind but Herbert doesn't play defense and they need guys to make stops and get him the ball back.

Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Derwin James Jr., J.C. Jackson and more headline this defense and make it a special one around the league. They just need to stay healthy. Eric Smith of Chargers.com was at mini-camp and detailed some of what he saw:

"The Bolts defense shined in the final portion of Wednesday's session, as Derwin James, Jr., provided the play of the day with a one-handed interception. James was matched up 1-on-1 with Keenan Allen down the left sideline before the safety made a leaping catch with just one hand that set off a wild celebration from the defense."

Per Chargers.com

This is a great sign and obviously it's just practice early in the summer. But the defense is going to have to be the X-factor for this Chargers team. They are going to be the engine that keeps them alive because at the end of the day, you have to stop the opposing team.

In the AFC, Los Angeles must contend with Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, Trevor Lawrence and Josh Allen, to name a few. Let's also not forget Aaron Rodgers with the Jets.

Offense is the name of the game in todays NFL but the Chargers have the talent to be successful on defense. They just need to go out there and prove it.