The Los Angeles Chargers are working out defensive linemen to bolster their faltering pass rush. What does that mean for the team?
Aside from Melvin Ingram, no Los Angeles Chargers defensive lineman has recorded a sack this season. To fix that, the team has brought in defensive linemen for work outs. Reports of workouts include these players: Former Jets defensive lineman Xavier Cooper, former Cowboys defensive end Kony Ealy, former Redskins defensive lineman Anthony Lanier
Why they never signed Johnathan Hankins is beyond me, but let’s focus on the signings and what they mean. All three are a clear response to problems on the defensive line that stem from three possible issues.
One, and likely the most obvious one, is the Joey Bosa injury. He’s supposed to return in October, but fans are left out to dry waiting for an official word on his timetable. Someone knows more than they’re letting on, and it’s possible the injury forces him to miss half the season or more.
Another possible reason is the lack of productivity from his replacement, Isaac Rochell. The former seventh round selection from 2017 had a solid preseason this year, but has not found any success rushing the passer in his first two games. To my memory, I don’t remember being in the backfield at all for a pressure, let alone a sack.
Justin Jones, the team’s third round pick, had just one assisted tackle in 30 snaps against the Bills. The team needs more out of their rookie, especially against the Rams this week. Without Corey Liuget, and without much help from any other interior linemen, Jones needs to make more of an impact. Since he hasn’t so far, the Chargers appear to be making a move to fix that.
With a tough Rams opponent, 49ers Jimmy Garoppolo, and a divisional opponent in the Raiders on the schedule for the next three weeks, the Chargers need a find a way to get after the quarterback from the line. Derwin James is the team’s sack leader, and while he’s exceptional at rushing the passer, he has other duties in pass coverage that will take him away from the line. It’s clear the team is looking to add a player, so be on the lookout for a signing to occur soon.