Should Chargers Bring Back Crucial Defensive Starter?

It may be time to move on from this four-year Bolt safety.

The Los Angeles Chargers have wasted no time revamping their team, starting with significant upgrades on the coaching side. While these changes are promising, attention will soon turn to the player side of things, where tough decisions must be made.

Among the pending free agents is four-year safety Alohi Gilman, who is coming off the best season of his career.

Gilman, 26, showed significant improvement in 2023, posting career-high numbers in various categories, including total tackles, tackles for loss, forced fumbles, and interceptions. 

Despite his standout performance, it may be in the Chargers' best interest to part ways with Gilman and opt for a younger option at the safety position. Given the team's existing salary cap constraints, allowing Gilman to walk in free agency could be the most logical move.

With Gilman set to become an unrestricted free agent, the Chargers will have the opportunity to explore other options in the draft. Fortunately, this year's draft class features several promising safeties, such as USC's Calen Bullock, Washington State's Jaden Hicks, Utah's Sione Vaki, Georgia's Tykee Smith, and Texas Tech's Dadrion Taylor-Demerson. 

These prospects are projected to be available in the draft's middle rounds, offering the Chargers a chance to bolster their secondary. 

While Gilman has shown improvement year after year, concerns about his size and durability could limit his effectiveness in Jim Harbaugh's system. Given the importance of the safety position and the team's desire to build a competitive roster, it may be time for the Chargers to invest in fresh talent at that position.

The Bolts' approach to the draft and free agency will be crucial in shaping the team's future success. While Gilman has been a valuable contributor, the team must weigh the potential benefits of retaining him against the opportunity to upgrade and add depth to the roster. It's a tough decision, but if the Bolts want to reach a new level, getting younger at safety will be best.