5 teams that could have 49ers-like turnaround in 2020
By Peter Panacy
No. 2: Los Angeles Chargers
2019 Record: 5-11
Each year, it seems like fans and pundits say “this is the year” the Los Angeles Chargers will finally meet expectations and reach deep into the playoffs.
And each year, we’re left disappointed.
After parting ways with veteran quarterback Philip Rivers during the offseason, the Chargers will turn their signal-calling duties over to the veteran, Tyrod Taylor, or the rookie first-round pick, Oregon’s Justin Herbert. Los Angeles doesn’t have to rush Herbert into the fray right away, as Taylor has helmed playoff squads before. But it’s a storyline to watch.
What’s more intriguing is seeing how the Chargers defense ascends after getting fully healthy, namely putting safety Derwin James back into the fray along with L.A.’s other first-round rookie, linebacker Kenneth Murray. That’ll be a fun tandem to watch, just like edge rushers Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram.
The Chargers aren’t anywhere close to catching up to the Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.
But a Wild Card berth certainly isn’t out of the question.