The first day of the NFL league year is almost up, so it’s time to have a look at what the Chargers have done today, and in the last few days I’m free agency.
In-House – New Contracts
S Adrian Phillips
The former undrafted free agent had a career year in 2017. Phillips completed 63 tackles, 5 passes defended and 2 interceptions in his 4th year in the league. The Bolts moved the defensive back around this year, using him as an additional linebacker, next to Denzel Perryman, at times. It’s only a one-year deal for Phillips.
T/G Michael Schofield
A two-year deal for the former Bronco. Schofield was brought in last year as depth, but ended up starting in five games at right tackle. Starter Joe Barksdale struggled with injuries within the season, and Schofield filled in with creditability.
Michael Schofield Chargers deal: $5M; $2.5M gtd, $1.5M signing bonus, salaries $1M (gtd), $2M; $500K roster bonus 2019 fifth day league year, up to $1.25M playtime incentive annual
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) March 14, 2018
LB Nick Dzubnar
Like Schofield, it’s a two-year contract for the special teams ace. Although he doesn’t offer much on defense, he led the league in special teams tackles, with 21.
WR Geremy Davis
This will be the third year for Davis in the Chargers’ system. However, he has only featured in 5 games over the past two seasons. The coaching staff must be seeing potential in practice to be rewarding him with another one-year deal.
In-House – Tenders
WR Tyrell Williams
One they simply had to get done. The team placed a second-round tender on Williams. There is a chance for someone else to offer for the wide-out, but the Chargers could always match it. If he stays here, Williams will hope to bounce back after a dip in form during his sophomore year.
DE Chris McCain
Los Angeles’ third pass rusher behind the duo of Melvin Ingram and Joey Bosa. McCain had an inconsistent year, but did flash with 5 sacks in 15 games. The 5th year defender was given a right of first refusal tender.
One From The Outside
TE Virgil Green
Staying in the AFC West, Virgil Green has been given a three-year deal from Los Angeles. The former Denver tight end was someone that I said could be a target in my ‘Offensive FAs the Chargers should target’. Not a flashy, but solid signing, who could prove to become the team’s number two tight end, behind Hunter Henry. A very good blocker at his position last year, and can play a role in the passing game, too. On the other hand, I’m shocked nothing has been said about Antonio Gates. Now, officially a free agent, it’s unclear whether this will affect him coming back. Unfortunately, only the figures for this deal haven’t been released yet.
We’ll see tomorrow if the Chargers can add to this list.
–Thomas Herd is a Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage Sports Media. He covers the Los Angeles Chargers. Follow him on Twitter @chargers_uk.
