San Diego Chargers

[darin3]

Linebackers

Donnie Edwards is unequivocally the leader of this group, stats-wise... but don't put it past veteran Randall Godfrey to be the inspirational leader. What that translates to in terms of on-field production (and thusly, fantasy stats) remains to be seen. But if last Sunday's game is any indication, Godfrey could certainly help IDP'ers out, for those looking for some depth, bye week or injury filler, or to just keep him off the waiver wire and off your opponents' squads. The veteran LB had 7 solo tackles and 3 assists against the Cowboys. With opposing offensive lines paying special attention to the uber-stud Donnie Edwards, the rest of the Bolt LB corps might just continue to post solid numbers. Ben Leber and Steve Foley (if available in your leagues) are definitely solid contributors and would be perfect as #3 or backup LBs in standard IDP leagues

 

D Line

As I stated in my preseason guide, the Bolts really don't have much to look at in terms of fantasy value from their D-line. Luis Castillo has a motor ... Igor Olshansky has a motor ... but that's not going to yield them big fantasy numbers, especially with tackle-gobbling LBs behind them. In big dynasty leagues, perhaps you grab one of these D-linemen, but in normal IDP leagues, let them sit on your waiver wire.

 

Defensive Backs

Unfortunately for Charger fans, the Charger secondary is still giving up big plays. Terrence Kiel has the makeup to be a super stud safety in the NFL, but just isn't living up to the hype. He still merits fantasy consideration, though. He logged 8 solo tackles this past Sunday. If the Chargers' secondary is to improve, Kiel will have to continue to post those kinds of numbers, and start making big plays. Bhawoh Jue has looked pretty good as the FS, but with Kiel (hopefully) making big plays, doesn't warrant fantasy consideration, unless you're looking for a deep sleeper. Both CBs (Jammer and Florence) could be ignored, fantasy-wise. Jammer will end up being a solid NFL CB, though. He has skills.

 

Start/Bench

As hinted above, you can start Donnie Edwards. Go ahead, go crazy. Any of the other Bolt LBs are fantasy-worthy too, depending on the size of your league and required LB starters. Keep in mind, Steve Foley's nicked up, but has uncanny QB sacking ability... so if he's healthy come Sunday, feel good starting him. Leber and Godfrey are solid starts this week as they play division rival Denver.

 

The Infirmary

Steve Foley had an undisclosed issue with his eye prior to Week 1 (listed as probable). He should be good to go in Week 2. Shawne Merriman was inactive due to a sore hammy and a knee injury Week 1. No word on his status.

 

The Water Cooler

The Charger run D continues to be solid, with their pass D leaving alot to be desired. The Bolts really need Shawne Merriman to get healthy and provide some pressure on the opposing QB.

 

That's all for this week... for those that signed up for other teams' correspondents, feel free to update yours as you see fit.

Edited September 19, 2005 by darin3

[darin3]

Follow-up notes:

 

--- Bhawoh Jue got the start at FS, and got his first INT of the season along with 3 solo tackles. He's worth a look in deep leagues as a backup.

 

--- Terrence Kiel logged 6 solos and got himself a sack. He's certainly the 2nd best IDP option on this team behind Donnie Edwards.

 

--- Steve Foley continues to rack up sacks from the linebacker position. If your league gives big points for sacks, Foley is certainly worthy of starting each week.

 

--- Drayton Florence actually had a pretty decent game, with 5 solos and a pass defended. Between him and Jammer, though, it's hard to say who's gonna have the fantasy-worthy outing. Plus, Kiel is a borderline stud DB and Jue has been playing pretty well as of late. Leave the Bolt CBs on the waiver wire.

 

More updates to follow later in the week, and look for the Week 3 column on Wednesday or Thursday.