For the first time since 2004, the Chargers will be without QB Philip Rivers. Chargers coach Anthony Lynn has said he would like to give Tyrod Taylor a chance to start at QB, and if that doesn’t work out, then Justin Herbert could takeover. The other QB option for Los Angeles would be Easton Stick.
The Chargers passed up on signing QB Cam Newton partly due to the fact that they will need to have enough money to re-sign WR Keenan Allen and DE Melvin Ingram.
The Chargers also placed a franchise tag on TE Hunter Henry, which gives him the option of playing on a one-year tender if he decides not to sign a long-term deal with Los Angeles.
Henry was on SiriusXM NFL Radio and said this about the franchise tag:
“I think it’s fine…Obviously, I think I would like to get something done; just security, and long term and just with the team and the franchise. It’s another year of playing football, man, that’s how I look at it.”
According to Spotrac, if Henry doesn’t sign a new contract by July 15, he could make $10.6 million in 2020.
Henry got a chance to work with rookie QB Justin Herbert and Henry said:
“He’s got a great arm. Obviously, he went first round, sixth pick for a reason… He’s very, very talented. Obviously, the mental side of the game will be the biggest thing.”
Henry also was asked about Tyrod Taylor’s ability to get the job done. Henry said he’s a “big believer in Tyrod, too, so I’m looking forward to seeing what he’s going to bring to us this year.”
The Chargers are coming off a disappointing 5-11 record, partly due to injuries, and partly due to Philip Rivers having no pass protection. However, Henry did shine last season, although playing in just 12 games, he had 55 catches for 652 yards and five touchdowns.
This should be an exciting season for the Chargers, as they have a new QB, whether it’s Tyrod Taylor or Justin Herbert, they are both mobile QBs and perfect for Anthony Lynn’s system. If the defense remains healthy, the Chargers could be a tough team to defeat in January.
