SAN DIEGO – The New England Patriots sealed a 28-24 victory over the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX after a curious call by Seahawks offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell resulted in an interception by Patriots cornerback Malcolm Butler.
My thoughts a day after the NFL title game are this: How far are the San Diego Chargers from hoisting the Lombardi Trophy? Well, here’s what the Chargers need to have a chance to make it happen next season.
A workhorse running back: Whether the Chargers are active in free agency or a trade pursuing someone like Adrian Peterson or they select one of the talented runners in this year’s draft, San Diego needs an every-down back to carry the load, taking pressure off Philip Rivers to carry the team with the passing game.
A big-play receiver: Neither team in this year’s Super Bowl had a true No. 1 receiver, so you can win the big game without Calvin Johnson on your roster. However, the Chargers could use another guy on the outside who can create explosive plays, particularly after the catch.
A tone-setting offensive lineman: The Chargers could choose to move D.J. Fluker inside to guard or leave him at right tackle and focus on beefing up the interior offensive line. Either way, San Diego needs to bring in someone with some feistiness who plays with a chip on his shoulder. The Chargers lost some swagger up front when Nick Hardwick and Jeromey Clary did not play in 2014.
An elite edge rusher: The last time someone in a San Diego uniform finished with double-digit sacks was Antwan Barnes (11) in 2011. The Chargers need a rusher opposing offenses have to fear coming off the edge in passing situations to help defensive coordinator John Pagano scheme on third down.
A big corner: When healthy, Brandon Flowers and Jason Verrett played well in 2014. However, the Chargers still need an athletic, 6-foot corner who can match up with bigger receivers and be a willing tackler in the run game. Flowers and Verrett won’t make it through the 2015 season if they are continually asked to fill the lanes in run support.
A hard-hitting safety: Everyone is looking for the next Kam Chancellor. University of Washington defensive back Shaq Thompson could be the guy. He would pair nicely with Eric Weddle and give Pagano the flexibility he likes because of Thompson's ability to play all over the field. Jahleel Addae likely will take on more of a role on defense as well with Marcus Gilchrist headed for free agency. But the Chargers need more physical, athletic bodies who can run on defense.
A kickoff specialist: Nick Novak is one of the most accurate kickers in the NFL, but he’s the worst in the league in touchbacks. San Diego could do a better job limiting plays in the return game.
A return specialist: Chargers general manager Tom Telesco has to make it a point of emphasis to find a return specialist in the draft or free agency who can give them some juice in the return game.
