Chargers’ Lack Of Depth At Specific Position Could See Them Re-Sign Key Free Agent
Your Los Angeles Chargers’ 2023 defense was absolutely miserable. On a pricey team with ineffective vets, it makes sense that the 2024 variant would like to change things up.
That said, it appears that an unfortunate lack of depth at the linebacker position may force the hand of LA decision makers this offseason.
Khris Rhim of ESPN explains why new Bolts head coach Jim Harbaugh and new LA general manager Joe Hortiz may opt to re-sign incumbent Kenneth Murray Jr.
“Jim Harbaugh's defenses in San Francisco were built around great inside linebackers (see Patrick Willis and NaVorro Bowman),” Rhim writes. “Harbaugh hired Bowman to coach the team's linebackers, so this position will undoubtedly be important. After releasing Eric Kendricks on Tuesday, the Chargers have rookie Daiyan Henley (51 defensive snaps in 2023) and Nick Niemann (238 defensive snaps in 2023) on the roster. Over his first four seasons, Murray has had lapses in coverage and run defense, but had his best season in 2023, tied for the most tackles in his career (107) despite missing two games. The Chargers could look to get Murray back with their lack of depth at the inside linebacker spot.”
