THE LOS ANGELES CHARGERS TEAM PREVIEW (2024)
Written By: @Gr1m_FF
2023 Season Recap
Record: 5-12
Points For: 346
Points Against: 398
Off-season Roster Recap
Key Additions: Alex leatherwood, Gus Edwards, J.K Dobbins, Denzel Perryman, Hayden Hurst, DJ Chark.
Key Losses: Austin Ekeler, Mike Williams, Keenan Allen, Eric Kendricks, Gerald Everett.
Draft Recap Offense:
1.5 Joe Alt (OT)
2.34 Ladd McConkey (WR)
6.181 Kimani Vidal (RB)
7.225 Brenden Rice (WR)
7. 253 Cornelius Johnson (WR)
Draft Recap Defense:
3.69 Junior Colson (LB)
4.105 Justin Eboigbe (DL)
5.137 Tarheeb Still (DB)
5.140 Cam Hart (DB)
2024 Outlook:
Overview
The Los Angeles Chargers had a rough 2023 season, finishing with a 5-12 record. Their struggles were largely due to issues on the offensive line, a decrease in production from Austin Ekeler, and overall poor team chemistry.
Looking ahead, the Chargers might improve in team chemistry and have certainly bolstered their offensive line with additions like Joe Alt and Alex Leatherwood. However, they still have significant gaps in key areas, and they are relying heavily on young players to step up. For instance, while Austin Ekeler was a critical part of the team, they are looking to replace the loss with the old Baltimore tandem of Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins, which does not promote initial confidence.
Under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, known for his run-heavy approach at Michigan and San Francisco, the Chargers may focus more on the ground game. However, they face challenges in the passing game with the losses of Mike Williams, Keenan Allen, and Gerald Everett. Additions like DJ Chark and Hayden Hurst may not be substantial upgrades, and much is expected from players like Ladd McConkey, Joshua Palmer, and Quentin Johnston.
Considering their tough schedule and strong defensive opponents, it's difficult to see the Chargers finding immediate success. With a new coaching staff, there are many unknowns. While some expect quick improvement, I anticipate initial struggles. Improvement from their 5-12 record is likely, but not by a large margin. Given their draft and offseason additions, Harbaugh seems to be building around a strong defense, marking a shift from the offensive identity the Chargers have had in the past, except for last year's disappointing performance.
Fantasy Impact
In recent years, the Chargers have been a compelling team for fantasy football enthusiasts. With Justin Herbert leading the charge, investing in him has been a smart move. Austin Ekeler was another top pick due to the team's RPO and spread offense sets. Additionally, Keenan Allen and Mike Williams were valuable assets in their pass-heavy offense. In IDP formats, players like Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa, and Derwin James were also strong choices.
However, changes are afoot for the Los Angeles Chargers, both positive and negative. On the defensive side, IDP formats will see an even wider array of viable options. Beyond the established stars like Mack, Bosa, and James, new talents such as Junior Colson and Denzel Perryman are emerging, offering promising week-to-week production.
Offensively, the outlook is more uncertain. Justin Herbert remains a top-10 quarterback, capable of performing well regardless of his supporting cast. Yet, with the departures of key players like Mike Williams, Keenan Allen, Gerald Everett, and Austin Ekeler, the offense's production may not match previous levels. Gus Edwards is now projected to start at running back. While he's effective between the tackles, he doesn't offer the same dynamic presence as Ekeler. The receiving corps will rely heavily on Joshua Palmer, Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey, DJ Chark, and Hayden Hurst.
Fantasy-wise, expect Herbert to adopt a Tom Brady-like approach by spreading the ball around rather than focusing on a single target. This balanced target share could result in modest production from multiple receivers rather than a standout performance from one. Herbert's overall fantasy output should remain steady, but the individual fantasy value of his receivers might decrease compared to past seasons. The days of relying on Chargers' stars like Williams, Allen, and Ekeler for consistent fantasy points may be over.
Jim Harbaugh's run-heavy offensive philosophy might also bolster the running game, potentially benefiting the running back position. Overall, fantasy football strategies involving the Chargers will need to adapt to these changes. While the team dynamic has shifted, this evolution could ultimately lead to more balanced and diverse options for fantasy players
Schedule:
Week 1 vs. LV
Week 2 @ CAR
Week 3 @ PIT
Week 4 vs. KC
Week 5 BYE
Week 6 @ DEN
Week 7 @ ARI
Week 8 vs. NO
Week 9 @ CLE
Week 10 vs. TEN
Week 11 vs. CIN
Week 12 vs. BAL
Week 13 @ ATL
Week 14 @ KC
Week 15 vs. TB
Week 16 vs. DEN
Week 17 @ NE
Week 18 @ LV
Strength of schedule: (.478)
DraftKings Projected Wins: (9-8)
#Gr1m_FF prediction: (7-10)
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