Los Angeles Chargers: Five things they must do this off-season
Re-sign cornerstone players:
The Los Angeles Chargers have several key players going into the final season of their deals, who are in prime position for a contract extension. These players are Casey Hayward, Jason Verrett, and Melvin Gordon.
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It is imperative that the team does not either of its starting corners. Hayward is arguably the best corner in the league, and when healthy Jason Verrett is not too far behind him. If the team can secure both corners for the next 4 years, they will possess one of the best cornerback duos, and best pass rushing duos in the entire league.
Having a foundation like that to build your defense on is a phenomenal place to be. There may be some concerns with Haywards age and Verrett’s injury history, but since NFL contracts are largely unguaranteed, giving them both extensions is worth the risk.
Bringing back Melvin Gordon is not as much of a no-brainer as the previous two players. Gordon has shown a lot of potential, but hasn’t quite lived up to it yet. Perhaps most of the blame can be put on an average at best run blocking offensive line, but I wouldn’t put it all on that unit.
Gordon has shown to have a bad habit of stopping his feet behind the line when trying to find a hole, leading to negative plays. This small habit can be very irritating once you notice it.
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While I am downplaying Gordon’s performance, he has been far from bad. He has averaged 1000 yards in the last two seasons, but it feels like he could have more. Regardless of whether or not you think Gordon has underperformed, he is deserving of being extended, just off the fact that he has been pretty consistent over the last two years. But if I was the team’s GM, I probably wouldn’t give him as much money as he thinks he deserves.