2007 was supposed to be the year for the San Diego Chargers… supposed to be. Following a 1-3 start, many questioned the team, especially that first overall pick for many fantasy football owners, LaDainian Tomlinson. It's hard to believe, but Tomlinson had a whopping 130 rushing yards entering week 4. He proceeded to total 132 rushing yards in that game, leading many to believe he was back on top. Congratulations to those of you who bought low early, knowing that Tomlinson wouldn't stay quiet throughout the season. However, week 5, Tomlinson was back to his early season ways, rushing for only 67 yards against a Denver Broncos team the Chargers beat by 38 points. Again, congratulations to those of you who bought low. The reason why?... Tomlinson finished the season with 1474 yards, 19 total touchdowns (including the one he threw), 60 receptions, and 475 receiving yards. Further, the massive stretch run weeks 14-16, likely carried many of his owners to the fantasy football championship. I’m pretty sure Webster’s Dictionary has placed a picture of LT next to the word "stud".
As for the rest of the Chargers, quarterback Phillip Rivers was a bit of a roller coaster. Some weeks he was fantastic, others you wanted to drop him. Tight End Antonio Gates was pretty much his same 'Ole self, nearly identically reproducing his 2006 numbers despite battling injuries all season long. Third year wide receiver Vincent Jackson was supposed to add a vertical compliment to Gates, and to some extent, did just that. Mostly, however, he was disappointing and failed to live up to the hype as a sleeper wide receiver in 2007. The Chargers acquired Chris Chambers from the Miami Dolphins in week 7, and he nearly out produced Jackson in 6 fewer games for the Bolts.
-------------------
Key Departures
Michael Turner (RB) – Turner was never more than a backup as a member of the San Diego Chargers, but when he got the opportunity to do something, he often shined. Thus far, the four year veteran has totaled 1,257 rushing yards, 6 touchdowns and a 5.5 yard per carry average on just 228 rushing attempts. Despite his success, the Chargers realized he wasn't worth the money he would demand on the open market, and Turner signed as a free agent with the Atlanta Falcons.
-------------------
Key Additions
When taking a look at the San Diego Chargers off season acquisitions, the likes of Derek Smith and L.J. Shelton are miles away from making a fantasy football impact. Although, Shelton will add some bulk upfront and should be able to help an already impressive offensive line.
-------------------
2008 Bruno Boys Crystal Ball
Phillip Rivers (QB) – Rivers was as up and down as a pogo stick last year, but clearly had the tools and weapons around him to be highly successful. However, his off season included surgery for a torn ACL, and though Rivers has never been particularly mobile, he obviously needs to prove his health before you select him. At this point, the Bruno Boys Fantasy Football staff can’t recommend him as more than a high upside back-up in 10 or 12 team leagues with the potential for more later in the season. The ACL, threat of LaDainian running it every single down, and a questionable Antonio Gates all make Rivers quite risky. Though Rivers has begun participating in OTAs for the Chargers, and swears he’ll be ready for the season, look elsewhere for your starter.
LaDainian Tomlinson (RB) – And to think, some of you doubted him. His better is better than your better, people! Those of you preferring to draft low-risk options should continue to make Tomlinson the top pick in your fantasy football drafts. I’ll still take Adrian Peterson (RB – Minnesota Vikings), who evidently can out accelerate a hot-rod and needs multiple mini parachutes to slow him down. Take that Chad Johnson! Seriously though, even though we can all readily assume everything we see on Nike commercials is absolutely true, Tomlinson’s the safe choice at the top slot.
Vincent Jackson (WR) – He’s got ideal size and good down field speed, and his 2007 playoffs showed a glimpse of what could be (18 receptions for 300 yards and two touchdowns). However, I’m not a believer just yet. Jackson has too many other options surrounding him to be a consistent player for your fantasy football team. He’s a quality reserve with a lot of upside, but don't expect to find a diamond in the rough out of him.
Chris Chambers (WR) – For recommendation purposes, see Vincent Jackson. Chambers has talent, and has produced before. But a one-legged QB, plenty of other options, and the tendency to drop a few passes makes Chambers much too risky for my taste. At best, he is a WR3 on your squad, and could battle with consistency issues throughout the season.
Antonio Gates (TE) – For years, Gates dominated as the top tight end in the fantasy football game. Over the last two years, however, Gates has still been great, but not worthy of the draft spot it takes to get him. This is probably why I’ve not owned him in the last two years, except on one autodraft team that also selected Kellen Winslow Jr. Note to self: Don’t play in autodraft leagues. Off season foot surgery currently has Gates missing OTAs, but he’s currently still saying he’ll be ready in September. He does admit, however, that he’s likely to miss the start of training camp. Those low-risk seekers should look elsewhere, as Gates could be a substantial risk/reward proposition in 2008. If he proves his health, don’t hesitate to make him your starting tight end… just be wise and please don’t waste a third rounder doing it.
Rookies to Watch
Jacob Hester (RB) – Hester was selected out of LSU with San Diego’s second pick, a third rounder (No. 69 overall). The Chargers evidently like him quite a bit, as they traded a 2008 fifth rounder and a 2009 second rounder to obtain the pick from the New England Patriots. Hester will be a full-time, do everything tailback for the Bolts, and will likely immediately assume the back-up role once occupied by Michael Turner. Make no mistake… I am not saying Hester is Turner, but he’s your must have handcuff if you’ve got Tomlinson.
Other Team Capsules
NFC WEST - ARI I STL I SF I SEA
NFC SOUTH - ATL I CAR I NO I TB
NFC NORTH - CHI I DET I GB I MIN
NFC EAST - DAL I NYG I PHI I WAS
AFC WEST - DEN I KC I OAK I SD
AFC SOUTH - HOU I IND I JAX I TEN
AFC NORTH - BAL I CIN I CLE I PIT
AFC EAST - BUF I MIA I NE I NYJ