San Diego
April, 2008
It wasn't long before you couldn't recognize the Chargers roster any more. San Diego had been especially aggressive in free agency, and while they signed 17 players, they managed to keep well under their expected salary cap needs. Aggressive scouting and negotiation led to a whole new look for the Chargers before they even began the rookie draft. Notable acquisitions included:
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Justin Smith DE
One of the most talented free agents available, Smith has recorded 55 sacks over the last 5 years for the Bengals. He signed a six-year deal that was heavily backloaded in the last two years for cap purposes.
Horace Walker WR
Acquired from the Browns in exchange for two late 1st round picks in this year's draft, Walker is a second-year receiver that is expected to be on the brink of stardom, and the Chargers staff decided that they needed a big-play target for Alvin Lane, and nothing better was available via the draft or free agency.
Vincent Upshaw G
One of two offensive line veterans who will be expected to open holes for the running game and keep Lane upright more often.
Derrick Dockery T
Dockery has tremendous potential that he has been unable to showcase while at Washington due to the Redskins' two very talented starting tackles.
Ricky Williams RB
The tenth year veteran gives the Chargers an immediate rushing threat, and Williams was willing to sign for a very reasonable price to play for his hometown team.
Jamal Reynolds DE
Coupled with Justin Smith, Reynolds will give the Chargers a serious pass rushing tandem that should rattle opposing quarterbacks.
Nate Burleson WR
Burleson is a solid second WR that should complement the Chargers passing game nicely.
Jake Delhomme QB
His physical skills are in decline, but Delhomme will be a good mentor to Lane and should be a serviceable backup if needed.
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In the rookie draft, the Chargers selected:
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Teddy Burks T Arizona State
Burks is expected to be the anchor of the Chargers line, and will be responsible for protecting Lane's blind side.
Claude Henson T Kansas
Between Burks and Henson, the Chargers should have a pair of all-pro bookends to a solid offensive line.
Daniel Moser DT Millersville
A risky pick - but if he lives up to his potential, he could be an immediate all-pro.
Clarence Davidson S Virginia
The best defensive secondary player in the draft. Talented, smart, and hard working - expected to be a very solid player.
Daryl Lang LB Purdue
An effective run-stopper as well as a pass rushing threat.
Deron Jefferson G Duke
Jefferson is an intelligent and strong player who is expected to emerge as a leader on the OL.
Edwin West LB Clarion
West is a middle linebacker who has proven to be a punishing run stopper.
J.T. Strother C Purdue
The final piece of what is expected to be a very strong offensive line.
Derek Williams QB North Carolina
A QB who was projected to go early in the first round, but fell to the late 2nd. Obviously, he's a risky selection, but one that the Chargers can afford.
Ross Garcia K Western Carolina
If the games are close, we're going to need a better kicker...
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All the draftees were signed prior to training camp. Franklin wasn't taking any chances. He had one shot to start winning ballgames and getting fans back out to see the team. He knew the balance sheet would probably be in the red this season, and he couldn't afford to keep it there very long.