Merriman Plus Rivera Equals a Vastly Improved Chargers Defense

The return of all-pro linebacker Shawne Merriman means the Chargers defense will be vastly improved over last season. One of the biggest changes this year for the Chargers will be the man in charge of their defense, Ron Rivera , who took over the reins halfway through last season. Without Merriman to work with Rivera helped this team forget it's dismal first half performance and regain respectability. He's had the entire off-season to put his stamp on this unit and he gets a healthy Merriman back as well. Look for this to be one of the best defenses in the league with improvements in pass rush, turnovers, and passing yards allowed.

The defensive line features one of the best nose tackles in the game, Jamal Williams. He has been slowed in recent years by knee problems, but looks nimble again. He's the cornerstone of this 3-4 defense and if he's healthy he will tie up several blockers, blow up running plays and create a push up the middle. Luis Castillo mans one end position and he too has had injury issues. It would be nice to see him play in 16 games and get at least 10 sacks. Jacques Cesaire inherits the other end position from the departed Igor Olshansky. A spot starter in the past, Cesaire has shown flashes of ability as a pass rusher. Rookie Vaughn Martin could replace him either through injury or poor play before the seaon is over. Martin, is a raw talent who might be Jamal's future replacement, but the Bolts have him practicing at DE. He could be a surprise impact player if not as a starter, then as a designated pass rusher. Ryon Bingham continues to be a steady substitute who can play all positions on the line. If this crew can add more sacks to the mix, the pass defense will improve dramatically this season. The run defense was suspect at times last year, but with Merriman back, a healthy Jamal, and the contribution of a few rookies, the run defense should show improvement.

The linebacker play for this team was disappointing last season. Maybe that's why they made Larry English their #1 pick in the draft. He'll be used as a designated pass rusher and as a backup in case of injury. Last year Merriman only played in the first game and Stephen Cooper missed the first month due to a suspension. The other guys either played hurt or below expectations. However, there were some bright spots. Cooper had four interceptions and played well in the middle. Antwan Applewhite came on as a role player and showed promise. Shaun Phillips, despite getting most of the double teams, led the team with seven sacks. With Merriman back they have one of the league's best defensive players who inspires those around him to play better. One starting spot is unclear: Who will be playing next to Cooper in the middle? Last year Tim Dobbins was the starter for the last half of the season. The Bolts acquired ex-Cowboy Kevin Burnett to challenge Dobbins, but may only use him in passing situations so this is one position that is wide open for competition during camp. Brandon Siler, Jyles Tucker, and Applewhite provide depth and most of them will see some playing time. With Merriman's return you will see Phillips returning to form and along with a full year from Cooper means more sacks and a better run defense.

The secondary has been one of the most criticized of the Chargers units over the years. With three number one draft picks at cornerback this shouldn't be so. Obviously the safety play has let the corners and this team down too much. Management shares the blame as they repeatedly refused to sign high profile free agent safeties when they were available. Eric Weddle was handed the free safety job last year and ended up leading the team in tackles. Unfortunately, Weddle was MIA on some long pass attempts and needs to avoid getting out of position too often. He has speed so he should develop into a good safety eventually. Clinton Hart was another disappointment at strong safety due to injuries. He played with a cast on one arm and later with a neck collar. He vows to keep his job, but his days look numbered. Kevin Ellison, a rookie from USC, could replace him by mid season if not earlier. Paul Oliver, a three-year guy with good cover skills could contribute some plays in the dime package. Steve Gregory took some playing time away from Hart last year and provides depth.

Cornerback Quentin Jammer continues to be one of the most consistent defensive players this team has. He rarely gets beat deep and is a sure tackler who can give the opposition a bloody nose (ask Jeff Garcia). He doesn't make many interceptions. He just keeps defending passes and supports the run well. Antonio Cromarte is one of the keys to this team's success. Last year he only picked off two passes and played the entire year hurt as a painful hip kept him from being 100%. No one will question that Cromarte is one of the NFL's best athletes and he's already accomplished some amazing things. However, injuries and lack of focus resulted in Cro getting burned regularly in 2008. If he indeed has regained his health and can focus on the field, that is bad news for NFL quarterbacks. His comeback along with Merriman's should recharge this unit. Last year's #1 pick, Antoine Cason, worked well as a nickel back and should continue in the same role this season. Rookie Brandon Hughes should make the team as a backup or special teams player.

This is a unit that has talent and has excelled in the recent past. In the last three years they have led the league in sacks (2006) and interceptions (2007). Improved health and safety play along with a better pass rush should mean more interceptions, more sacks, and a top ten defense this season.