Described as one of the most dangerous teams heading into the 2018 season, the Los Angeles Chargers are a fantasy goldmine.
Whether it be Philip Rivers, who has averaged just over 17 points per game since 2006, or Keenan Allen who had a career-high, 182.2 fantasy points last season, there is no shortage of talent in this Chargers offense. However, not all the talent on this Chargers team is highly recognized. In fact, it’s the players listed below that could end up winning you some crucial games when your stars struggle to perform.
Mike Williams
It’s safe to say; Mike Williams had a less than satisfactory rookie season. Battling with some back injuries, Williams struggled to stay on the field, and even when active was scarcely utilized. However, the last time Williams was healthy, he finished his senior season at Clemson with 98 receptions, 1,361 yards, and 11 touchdowns. Spectacular numbers, it’s no secret Williams has all the tools to put up significant numbers. Also very useful in the red zone, Williams can be expected to rack up touchdowns on an efficient basis.
Another reason to believe Williams will be a reliable fantasy option next season is that all reports from Chargers camp indicate Williams has dominated the field, including catching two touchdowns during the teams first official scrimmage.
Season Projection: 70 receptions, 800 yards, seven touchdowns
Melvin Gordon
Despite Gordon having two straight productive seasons, many still don’t see him as a top fantasy running back. However, last season Gordon rushed for over 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns (and four receiving touchdowns), while also ranking fifth among running backs in total fantasy points. Averaging 14.4 ppg (Standard league) many fantasy owners were (and likely are still going to) be able to draft Gordon in the RB2 slot while getting RB1 production. And with reports coming out of Chargers camp that Gordon will be much more involved in the passing game going forward, that will only boost his yards per game while also adding a few more touchdowns. Overall, Gordon has the overall skill set and production to become your teams MVP.
Season Projection: 270 rushes, 1,200 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns
70 receptions, 500 receiving yards, 5 touchdowns
Chargers Defense
Sporting one of the leagues top secondaries, the Los Angeles Chargers are a defensive powerhouse. Featuring an all-pro cornerback in Casey Hayward along with one of the leagues most feared pass-rushing duos in Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram, This is a defense that will rack in turnovers and sacks. However, because they don’t feature as big of names as the Rams and weren’t as praised as the Jaguars, you can likely get them in the last few rounds of the draft. And you also have to consider the division they play in. Teams such as the Chiefs and Broncos have unproven quarterbacks. In the Chief’s case, although Mahomes might be stable in the long run, he is going to turn the ball over A LOT next season. As for the Broncos, Case Keenum impressed many last seasons, but you still can’t be sure you aren’t going to get Rams or Texans Keenum. Even the Raiders are entering an odd season where no one truly knows if Jon Gruden is going to work out. All in all, I think the Chargers will end the season as the best fantasy defense.
