Brandon Staley Believes Chargers' New LB is Among Top 5 of the Past Decade
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Even though the Chargers' offseason hasn't been as active as other years, they still have made some important moves that have improved the squad overall. Keep an eye out for LA's offense to thrive in 2023 under their newly added coordinator Kellen Moore. Donald Parham and Trey Pipkins III will also be back in powder blue.
However, the biggest free agency acquisition for LA was definitely new LB Eric Kendricks. He agreed to a 2-year, $13 million deal with the squad and will look to help continue improving the Chargers' defensive line. Drue Tranquill just left and joined the division-rival Kansas City Chiefs so Kendricks will have an even more-increased role.
Head coach Brandon Stanley had nothing but praise for the 31-year-old and has a big vision for him in 2023. In his recent press conference at the NFL's owners meetings, he shared why the front office pursued Kendricks in the first place.
"He’s one of the most complete linebackers in the last decade,” Staley. “You’re talking about five to seven players that are as complete a linebacker as he is. A true commander, a tackling machine - sideline to sideline, in the box, physicality. He's one of the best passing-game linebackers in the last decade."
(Via Chargers Twitter).
It's going to be exciting for Chargers fans to see how Kendricks gets acclimated into the squad this year and proves to be a difference-maker. There are few better individuals to show trust in him than Staley and he seems to be all on board with him becoming a defensive anchor.
When Staley addressed the media, he had a lot to say about the general state of the team and their plans moving forward. Obviously, it would be great to know if Austin Ekeler is a guaranteed part of the franchise's future but it looks like a firm direction is becoming clear.
