Tyson Alualu Says It "Would Be A Blessing" To Play For The Chargers

Tyson Alualu is one of the top ranked defensive linemen in the 2010 NFL Draft, and the Chargers certainly know who he is. Having met with him on several occasions, they will likely have come away with the same impression we did after speaking with Alualu; he's a tremendous football player with outstanding intangibles and is simply a guy you want on your team. Read BOLTHYPE's interview with Tyson Alualu after the jump.

MEETING THE CHARGERS

"I met with the Chargers at the Combine and talked to Coach Rivera and a couple of the other coaches as well. They said they were interested, and that they liked the way I play; my style. There wanted to get some information on me. And at the same time, they did say I would fit in there with their defense."

WHERE DOES ALUALU PROJECT IN THE DRAFT?

"They said I'm projected late first, early second. But for me, all I care about is the opportunity to play at the next level. One the same note, I want to go as high as I can. I'm looking forward to the opportunity to being a part of the NFL."

EXPERIENCE IN THE 3-4 DEFENSE

"In my Junior and Senior year we changed to a 3-4. In my first two years we played 4-3. Mainly I played 5-technique, head-up on the tackle. But in my Junior and Senior years I played all over the defensive line. I played nose, three-technique, and defensive end. I played strong side D-end at Cal, but I flopped both sides. I didn't have a preference. I play both sides and feel comfortable in a right or left hand stance."

HOW TYSON MOVES SO WELL FOR A BIG MAN

"I appreciate that. I think it's a little bit of everything. Yea, I'm considered a big guy, but coaches see potential and athletic ability to be able to play D-End as a bigger dude. Usually you see guys like myself playing D-Tackle, but coaches said I was quick enough to do both.

But it takes a lot of things, a lot of repetition to play two positions; playing defensive end, playing defensive tackle. And at the same time its also watching a lot of film, and studying film of the people that came before me. My freshman year we had great players such as Brandon Mebane, playing here at Cal. Being able to watch guys like him, I could pattern my game after them. I think that's what made the game a bit easier, knowing your opponent and the things that he does. It's a big part of how my game is what it is, watching lots of film and just being coachable."

FLYING TO THE BALL, HUSTLING TO MAKE PLAYS

"A lot of it is just the love for the game, wanting to go out there and give it your all. The Team is what this game is all about, competing with your teammates. But part of it comes from highschool football. I played Defensive End but I was a lot smaller that what I am now. But even so, a lot of teams would game plan and run away from me, run the opposite direction. So a lot of the plays I made was cashing down tackles from the back side.

Coming to Cal showed me this was a whole different game. You had to constantly run to the ball on every play. The coaches placed a big emphasis on the d-line and whole defense in general to swarm to the ball. I owe a lot to my coaches and to the players that I played with. As far as the d-line, we wanted that to be our identity: always getting to the ball. So it's both a love and passion for the game, doing what I had to do to make plays, as well as being coached by the coaches at Cal, and I owe a lot to them."

THE DECISION TO MOVE TO CALIFORNIA

"I'm from the islands. My family is from Hawaii and we moved out here my freshman year. We came to Cal because it was the best opportunity all around for me. It was my best offer, and the program was on the rise. It's also one of the best institutions and I wanted to get my degree year and make sure I have a life after football. I prayed about it and Cal was where God wanted me to be, so I choose Cal and I'm happy I made that decision. It lead me to be in the position I'm in today, and I'm very grateful and thankful."

51 CAREER COLLEGE GAMES, BEING A LEADER, HAVING HIGH CHARACTER

"I think it's definitely important. It's part of who I am and what I bring to the table. Its important for a team to have a leader. I just want to do the right thing, lead by example, and have people follow me and my actions both on the field as well as off the field. I just want to put myself in position to succeed both on and off the field. It's a big part of who I am. I don't get into trouble. I've got my family here, and I thank God for blessing me and helping me become the person I am today by staying away from distractions and focusing on building my college career."

COLLEGE COMPETITION

"I've faced some real good players in college. Shaun Luavao out of Arizona State, Charles Brown from USC. I faced a lot of good O-linemen in practice as well, one of the best was Alex Mack who now plays for the Cleveland Browns."

WHICH NFL TEAMS ARE SHOWING THE MOST INTEREST?

"I've met with a lot of teams, and it hasn't been mainly 3-4 teams or 4-3 teams. It's been a mix of both. A lot of 4-3 teams I've talked to say they see me as a two-down Defensive End, and in passing situations and stunt packages they'll bump me into 3-technique. Most 4-3 teams see me at end, some at defensive tackle. I've talked to a lot of 3-4 teams as well including San Diego, and they see me at defensive end in the 3-4. A lot of teams in both schemes have shown interest in me."

PLAYING IN THE 3-4 VERSUS THE 4-3

"I have no preference, none at all. I enjoy both. I don't have a preference, I just want the opportunity to go out there and show what I can do, what I love to do, and that's to play ball."

ONCE DRAFTED, WHAT WILL ALUALU'S APPROACH BE?

"I'm just looking for an opportunity. But don't get me wrong, whatever team that does pick me up I'm going to compete my butt off and work hard. I'm not going to just go to a team and be grateful and sit behind somebody, and just be happy where I'm at. Never get comfortable because I'm going to fight for that starting job. My attitude towards it is I'm going to take a spot. I want to be a starter in the NFL. What my job will be, we'll just have to see. But I'm going in expecting to compete with whoever it is, whether it's a veteran or not. I want that starting job. I'm going to do my best and show the coaches what I can do, and let them make the decision. But I'm definitely coming in to fight and compete for a spot."

WATCHING FOOTBALL IN HAWAII, FAVORITE TEAMS AND PLAYERS

"I never had a favorite team in the NFL, I just looked up to players. When I played Pop Warner, I played running back and I tried to emulate Emmit Smith but the Cowboys weren't my team. I never had a favorite team. I used to like running backs like Priest Holmes and Emmit Smith. When I starting getting older I started liking D-linemen like Reggie White. I just had a lot of favorite players who I enjoyed watching, but never had one favorite team."

PLAYING FOR THE SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

"Man, the Chargers...growing up, my uncles used to make us watch the Chargers because we all looked up to Junior Seau. He comes from the same decent that I do, and we used to watch him all the time. What he brought to the game was phenomenal, watching him go out there and make plays and make a big name for himself. We used to watch the Chargers all the time. Now, I enjoy watching Luis Castillo. I watch him and try to take moves from him, pattern my game after him. It would mean a lot if San Diego did call my name and to get the chance to play for you guys in San Diego. It would be a blessing for me to have that opportunity."

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TYSON ALUALU HIGHLIGHTS

Dan Williams: "I would definitely love playing for the Chargers"

When former All-Pro nose tackle Jamal Williams was released from the San Diego Chargers, he left behind a big hole in the middle of the Bolts' defense. But perhaps that hole can be filled by another Williams. Tennessee's Dan Williams has seen his stock rise remarkably over the past year, as he now finds himself ranked as the top true 3-4 nose tackle in the 2010 NFL Draft. While the pairing is perfect, the Chargers must hope that Dan Williams is available to them down at pick 28.

Having met with Dan Williams at the Senior Bowl and Combine, the Chargers have gotten up-close and personal with their potential first-round target. Williams has meet with San Diego scouts and coaching staff, but they're obviously not the only ones interested in Williams.

While not a glamor position by any means, the nose tackle in a 3-4 is nonetheless a highly coveted commodity. It takes a unique individual and a rare combination of size and brute strength in order to play the zero technique.

"It's definitely a challenge I'm willing to take," Williams told BOLTHYPE.com "I played a little bit of zero technique this year, and I've played zero for both of my coordinators in college. I know that it starts up front, and nose is a key part of the defense. It's a challenge I can't wait to take on."

At 6'2" 327lbs, it's hard for Williams to go unnoticed. He's a load in the middle and can hold his own against double and triple teams. While you'll certainly see him making plays on the football field, chances are you'll also notice how much space he takes up in the huddle.

"I've never always been the biggest, and I've never always been the strongest. But one thing I can say is you'll always notice me out of everybody else on the football field. I'm going to always do something different like extra hustling. And if I have to over-power someone, I will. Facing a talented opponent motivates me to be a better player. I'm always up for the challenge, and I've always tried to be a hard-worker and a good player."

Hard work is what Dan Williams attributes the significant development from his junior to senior year. One of the knocks on Dan Williams has been an inconsistent motor and work ethic. There have been questions of maturity and 'want-to' - is he a one year wonder motivated by the prospects of NFL paychecks? Or is Williams committed to the game and his future career?

"I did a lot of maturing over my college years," Williams explains. "Going from my junior to senior years, we went through a lot of adversity when my coach got fired and having a new coaching staff. "

"I become more of a leader my senior year," says Williams. "I was trying to be an example to the young group of defensive lineman that we have at Tennessee now. I went back and watched my junior film, looking for things that I could do better. A lot of times I would see myself and say 'If you hustled a little more you could have made that play'."

"I wanted to go to a bowl game. I wanted to make sure our hard work at Tennessee didn't go to waste. I wanted to improve my game and I wanted to help my team win."

Playing for Tennessee, Dan Williams and his Vols faced some of the stiffest competition in all of college football. The SEC is widely regarded as the toughest conference in the nation, with powerhouse teams such as Florida, Alabama, and Tennessee fiercely competition for victories and recruits alike.

So did playing in such a conference help prepare Williams for the next level?

"Oh it differently helps," says Williams. "Just look at the offensive linemen from the SEC coming out in the draft this year. You've got [Maurkice] Pouncey from Florida, John Jerry from Ole Miss, Mike Johnson from Alabama. Going up against those type of guys every weekend, I really do feel [playing in the SEC] prepares you for the next level. Everybody in the next level is good and are hard workers, but not to many other conferences are producing this caliber offensive linemen year in and year out. It really helped me become a better player.

With his college career now in the books, the Senior Bowl and Combine wrapped up, and fresh off his pro day it would seem that Williams' next game would be the waiting game. With team visits being scheduled and the draft just a month away, Williams embraces the process.

"I'm just going to continue to work hard. I have no control of where I'll be drafted. I do feel I've left a pretty good impression on teams, but at the same time if they want to see one more thing, if they want to see something else out of me, I'll be glad to do it."

As for fans of the San Diego Chargers, we can only hope that Dan Williams falls to the 28th pick in the first round. The Chargers would love to have him, and as far as Dan is concerned, that feeling is mutual.

"I would definitely love playing for the Chargers. I've watched San Diego for years now. Growing up, I remember in the mid 90s when Junior Seau was playing MIKE linebacker I had posters of him in my room. I always hear San Diego is a beautiful place to live. The weather and scenery is beautiful and they have one of the best teams in the nation. I would definitely love it."

Stephen Cooper Embraces Role As Captain Of The Bolts Defense

Often times, the most steady of players get overlooked by the fans and the media, and the San Diego Chargers have a handful of these types. Quentin Jammer is probably the most underrated player on the Chargers, but he's got a few teammates who go about their business with little flash but are dependable and consistent. Put Stephen Cooper in that group. Since becoming a full-time starter, Cooper has become the leader of the defense, a favorite of the coaching staff, and a player who commands the respect of opposing offenses.

While the Chargers' defense has had some vulnerabilities, it isn't for Cooper not doing his job. Stephen Cooper is as productive as any other player at his position. His average stat line over the past three years? 100 tackles, 6.5 passes defended, 2 interceptions, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble.

Steady, dependable, consistent.

Through hard work and a never-quit attitude, Cooper inspires his teammates. Whether in practice, studying film, or lifting weights, he leads energetically by example and charisma. When asked if this was a role he embraced, Cooper says sees it as a natural transition.

"We've got a real young team, and I've been here 7 years now," explains Cooper. "I've been here through the ups and downs here in San Diego. I've been there, so it's kind of natural to take the role of a vocal leader on the defense."

As the captain of the defense, Stephen Cooper is tasked him getting his teammates in position on the field and making adjustments as necessary. His coaches allow him to audible and freelance a bit, but one of Cooper's biggest strengths is his discipline and commitment to the defensive philosophy.

"Ron gives me a lot of flexibility in changing the defense, depending on the situation of the game, says Cooper. "It's about fitting in with the scheme. Ron puts us in a great position to make plays. In a 3-4 defense the linebackers get opportunities to make a lot of plays."

The Chargers don't have many three-down defensive players, but Cooper is a guy who stays on the field regardless of down and distance. Due in part to injuries, as well as the Chargers having many specialists on the roster, there is a constant rotation going on in the defense. The Chargers employ a variety of looks and packages specifically designed to counter the play which they are expecting to see. This takes a tremendous amount of preparation to execute, and while it might make things more hectic on the sidelines as the coaches send guys on and off the field, Cooper is there ready to lead the huddle.

"Some guys are great run stoppers, some guys can cover better than others. It all depends on what package you are in and what the game situation is that determines who is on the field. It doesn't really matter who's beside me. I think Ron Rivera does a good job of rotating guys in on the d-line and defensive backfield."

But with so many packages and so few three-down players, doesn't it mean that the defense will suffer more breakdowns? Cooper doesn't think so.

"I think it makes it easier when guys have less things to think about," Cooper says. "When you rotate guys to play in a certain package, they can focus on their package and those defensive calls. Myself, I'm a guy that plays every down, every package and there is a lot more thinking involved, but I've been in this defense for years so it makes my job a lot easier and I can make the most of it."

The Chargers defense is young and they've faced some big challenges when they lost key players. But the expectations are extremely high here in San Diego, and when mistakes are made and players are in the spotlight for the wrong reasons, the patience of the fans wears thin quickly. However, Cooper assured me that players are indeed held accountable for their actions on the field by their teammates.

"Everyone is accountable and everyone knows what's expected of them," states Cooper. "It's about going out there, doing your job, and executing. Guys on both sides of the ball know what they are supposed to do and when they are called upon and they don't do it, they need to understand that they are going to be held accountable if they don't do their job."

Strong words from a respected leader like Cooper ring true inside the locker room. The Chargers are determined to improve their defense next year, and Stephen Cooper is going to be a key part of their return to dominance.

Playmaker He May Be, Shaun Phillips Remains Team-First

Think about some of the most consistent players on the San Diego Chargers roster, and a few names probably come to mind; the All-World Antonio Gates produces year in and year out with a machine-like efficiency. Philip Rivers, always in the MVP conversation, efficiently puts up gaudy stats each and every season. And lets not forget how quietly Quentin Jammer seems to wrack up tackles while shutting down his half of the field. But there's another name as deserving as any to be included in such an impressive list; Outside Linebacker Shaun Phillips.

While some players may go out looking for the spotlight, Shaun Phillips keeps his focus on the job at hand. As steady as anyone, Phillips, in his four years as a starter, has averaged 66.5 tackles and 8.5 sacks a season - those numbers are on par with just about anyone who plays the position.

"I've played pretty consistently every year," says Phillips. "If you look at my numbers, they're pretty much the same. The only stat that's a little higher (this year) are my forced fumbles. But I go out there and play every play like it's my last."

It's that exact "play every play like it's my last" mindset that has allowed Phillips to approach the game as unselfishly as he does, while still making the most of the opportunities he's given.

On a Chargers defense that was desperately looking for a difference maker, someone to turn the tide of a game, Shaun Phillips was there. The 7 Forced Fumbles he generated in 2009 was tops in the NFL, as well as a Chargers team record.

Candidly nicknamed "The Other Guy" by the national media, Phillips has emerged from the shadow of teammate Shawne Merriman and has established himself across the National Football League as a true playmaker.

When presented with the idea that 2009 might be his best season yet, Phillips predictably disagrees.

"I don't think so," says Phillips. "It's funny how you get more notoriety when you make big plays. People hear your name more and they look at you more."

Phillips, always one deflect individual accolades back to his teammates, maintains that any success he has is a direct result of the other ten men on the field with him. It's his job to do whatever the team needs him to do, even if that's not putting up huge sack numbers and making tons of plays behind the line of scrimmage.

"It's not just about me," explains Phillips. "It's a team-first defense, a team-first concept, and I bought in to the system. Therefore you're not going to see me with 15 sacks because I do so many other things for my team. I drop in coverage, I play tight ends man-to-man, I anchor in the run game, I pass rush. I can do a little bit of everything for my team, and that's my role on the team and I understand that. I've adopted our defensive philosophy; it's a team-first concept. I do my job to the best of my ability, and give them what they expect from me."

The Chargers are currently on a team-record eleven game winning streak, have a first-round bye in the playoffs, and are widely regarded as the Super Bowl favorites. But things weren't always so optimistic for the Bolts. Indeed, nothing comes easy in the NFL, and the Chargers had their fair share of early struggles.

Jamal Williams, the foundation by which the Chargers 3-4 defense is built upon, goes down early in the 09 season and the outlook on the team did not look good. A 12 year veteran, Williams, although as dominant as ever, was playing on borrowed time and the Chargers had no proven depth behind him. His loss was an enormous blow to what had the makings of an otherwise good defense.

The Chargers would start the season 2-3, and in those three losses they'd give up more than 30 points per contest. Scrambling to compensate for such a huge loss in Williams, the Bolts would need a few weeks to get the right personnel in place, and as such a new rhythm would need to be established.

"It took a little while to get adjusted to the defensive lineman that were in the game now, Phillips recalls. "With Jamal we basically knew where the ball would go every time. That made the defense a lot easier in the run game because every play would go outside. But if it did go inside we knew it would cut back because Jamal was going to either defeat his man or get penetration and force the cut back. Therefore, the inside linebackers would get to make a lot more plays."

"But losing Jamal made us realize that we had to have a team-first defense, and that it would take all of us to step up, and that's what we did. A lot of guys took it upon themselves to step up and play their role."

Once the confusion had subsided and the everyone got used to the new faces in the huddle, the Chargers defense played with a renewed vigor. After their 2-3 shaky start, the Bolts would reel off 11 straight wins, due much in part to the markedly improved play of the D.

During that eleven game span, the Chargers defense allowed an average of less than 17 points per game. Not only is that an impressive statistic, but it's also a clearly defined goal the defense sets for themselves week in and week out.

"We understand that we have a good offense and that they're going to score points," says Phillips. "We have to do our job to get the ball into the offense's hands as much as possible because we know what type of players they have on that side of the ball. We know that we need to hold teams to 17 points or less, and if we do that, we win ball games."

Determined, focused, and ready, Shaun Phillips would rather not talk about potential and possibilities now that his team is in the playoffs. Don't ask him about what team he wants to face or what day he'd like to play on. He doesn't have the time or energy to devote to speculation; this man is all football.

"If I'm worried about whether we should play this week or that week, then we've already lost. We have one common goal, and that's to win one game at a time. Whenever we get an opportunity to play, we've got to be ready. Whoever they tell us to play, then that's who we've got to take out."

Norv Turner Chats With BoltHype

BoltHype, the San Diego Chargers blog, had a recent opportunity to chat with Head Coach Norv Turner. In the interview, we asked a number of questions including the status of the offensive backfield, the battle at right guard, and if the Chargers will show any Wildcat formations during the regular season. Click on to read the interview in it's entirety:

Philip Rivers had an MVP-type season last year as far as I'm concerned. He is certainly one of the better QBs in the AFC, if not the entire NFL. Could you see Philip getting more opportunities to throw the ball this season? Could he have 500-600 attempts this year, or does the commitment to the running game take those opportunities away?

"We want to be balanced. We want to be able to run and throw the ball with equal proficiency. The perception is that we became a passing team because we threw the ball extremely well last year. We were in situations where we needed to throw the ball and our quarterback had a great year."

Speaking of the running game, is it safe to say that LT will get 300 carries this season?

"That wouldn’t surprise me. We expect LT to be 100% and have an LT kind of year."

If LT goes down for an extended period of time, who steps up and fills that role?

"Darren Sproles would step in as he did last year. Michael Bennett is a veteran who was here part of the season last year and will compete there as well. Jacob Hester is in the mix, and Gartrell Johnson has been impressive this spring and will compete."

Is Jacob Hester a fullback or a tailback?

"Jacob is focusing on fullback, but he can also carry the ball.

Does Darren Sproles have a defined role in the system or will his role in the offense continue to expand?

We’d like to continue to expand Darren’s role. He’s really improving as a runner. He’s using his eyes, finding soft spots in the defense and has developed much better patience."

How many running backs + fullbacks will the final roster contain?

"That won’t be determined until training camp."

For the arm-chair coordinators out there, what position does Vincent Jackson and Chris Chambers play (X, Y, Z)?

"Chris is the X, Vincent plays Z."

Speaking from a fan's perspective, it seems to me that Jackson is a vertical, deep ball type receiver, whereas Chris Chambers can also be that guy but he is much more polished as a route runner and does some different things with more breaks in his routes. Is that an accurate observation? What are the biggest strengths that Jackson and Chambers posses?

"Both players possess similar abilities. They both run well, are outstanding route runners, have excellent ball skills and will go up and get the ball at its highest point. Chris plays bigger than he actually is and he had several big plays for us last year. I think Vincent is really under-appreciated outside of San Diego. He had seven catches of 40-plus yards last year and is a dangerous deep threat."

In terms of evaluation offensive lineman, what goes in to determining who the starter will be, and who will be the backup? Specifically, I'm curious about the process that you and the coaching staff will go through in deciding who will start at right guard. Is the top criteria strictly playbook knowledge, or does physical ability also factor in? Could a guy who is a bit raw have the chance to start if he was physically dominant?

"The main thing we do in the spring is get guys ready to compete for jobs in camp. The real evaluation comes when we get to camp and get the pads on. It’s about endurance, understanding leverage and angles, your ability to work with the guy next to you. The right guard battle is shaping up to be a good one, but we’ve got several guys who will compete for backup spots, for roster spots and for the opportunity to be one of the 45 guys that dress on Sunday."

Will the Chargers show any Wildcat looks this season (please!)?

"We have practiced it mostly for the benefit of our defense. However, if we get good at it, who knows."

Thanks so much for the time Coach Turner, and good luck this season!

Q&A With Chargers Director Of Scouting Jimmy Raye

Chargers Director of College Scouting Jimmy Raye is tasked with overseeing and coordinating the Chargers' scouting efforts. Essentially, it is Raye's job to delegate the best schools to each of his scouts spread throughout the country. Raye then visits all the top players in each of his scout's areas, in order see the top 150 players up close in person.

Raye's area scouts write reports on a player, that is then cross-checked with another scout's report. Raye will then write his own report on the player and act as a tiebraker if a consensus opinion isn't reached between his scouts. The information Raye and his scouts gather help General Manager A.J. Smith make a decision come draft day.

I recently conducted an interview Jimmy Raye, who was kind enough to take the time to answer some questions I had...

Some programs gain a reputation for putting out good players at certain positions. Schools like Virginia and Boston College have produced great offensive line prospects in recent years. USC seems to always have good linebackers. How much stock do you put into that? And on the flip side, what about schools that have stigmas attached to them, like Florida's wide receiver prospects failing to make much of an impact?

"We focus on each player and what he has done and what we think he can do. His school is little or no factor in our evaluation."

When you rank players on your board, do you also take into account the value of the position that they play? Without going into much detail, do some positions have more or less value than others? Will you elevate certain players based on the position they play?

"A player's position does not affect how we rank him on our board. We rank players strictly by the grades they receive from our scouting staff."

Do scouts stay awake at night trying to get a read on the underclassmen that come out? Is there more risk involved going with a younger guy because there is less tape on him? The one-year-wonder types have to make your job more difficult, right?

"Once an underclassmen declares for the draft, we have plenty of time to go back and look at his tape and see him workout in person if necessary."

Do you also have to look at the value they present you by coming out early; some of these juniors, had they went back and had great senior years, might go a lot higher the following year at a spot where you'd have no shot at taking them.

"We take everything into account, such as a player's age and experience. However, a player's production on the field is always our number-one criteria."

Every draft has it's share of "sleepers." Are there any players in particular, either on the San Diego Chargers or elsewhere, that you scouted as mid-round prospects that you felt would have a bright future in the pros and who have gone on to live up to those expectations?

"We don't believe in sleepers. We rank players on our board and pretty much stick to our board throughout the draft. Thus, we always draft players where we think they should be drafted."

The second round of each draft year is always an interesting one because there are so many quality players still on the board. What does the second round represent to you? Why do players fall into this round?

"Again, we always put the players on our board by their rank and draft accordingly. There are plenty of good football players out there to be found in every round."

Finish this sentence: With the 16th pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers select...

"You'll have to tune in to find out."

Thanks Jimmy and Bill for doing this interview, we appreciate it!

Q&A With Merriman's Potential Replacement, Larry English

Update: The following interview took place prior to Larry English being drafted by the San Diego Chargers

One of the keys to any successful 3-4 defense is having outside linebackers who can pressure the Quarterback and cause havoc in the backfield. Pass rushers are valuable additions to any team, and you can never have enough. The Chargers are blessed to have one of the best pass rushers in the league in Shawne Merriman, but he is coming of a serious knee injury and is in the last year of his contract. The Chargers always position their roster with an eye to the future, and so it comes as no surprise that they've talked with one of the most fearsome pass rushers in this year's draft, Larry English...

I had the good fortune to get a hold of Larry and ask him a few questions:

Larry, you've emerged as one of the best pass rushers available in this draft class. With so many teams looking for 3-4 outside pass rushers, your talents are certainly in high demand. What teams have shown interest in you so far?

"I've met with pretty much all of the 3-4 teams out there including the Chargers... they along with a few 4-3 teams have all expressed a considerable amount of interest. It will be interesting for me to find out where I will end up."

How would you feel about playing in San Diego? Are you familiar with the team and some of the
things they like to do on defense? How would you feel about playing along side Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips as an Outside Linebacker?

"I think it would be a great opportunity for me to play in San Diego, I have watched Shawne Merriman and Shaun Phillips play a lot of football. I feel that I would be a great asset to the defense and would love to play along side those guys."

I've seen you rated anywhere from a mid-first round pick to a second round bargain pick-up. What sense are you getting for where you might be drafted?

"When it comes to draft day i think that there are so many factors that go into it that you just never know for sure how things will play out. I will say that I definitely feel that with my desire and love for the game I am well worth a team's first pick."

You absolutely terrorized the MAC...describe how teams would gameplan for you. Do you look at it as a compliment that offensive coordinators had many sleepless nights trying to prepare for you?

"Well it is always an honor to have the respect of your peers. These past two seasons I definitely saw a good amount of double and triple teams but in all honesty I thrived on the opportunity to take on that challenge."

Some would have you believe that playing in the MAC inflated your stats a bit, but the way I see it if you can ball, then you can ball. You showed scouts at the Senior Bowl that you are for real. But do you think you'd be more hyped if you had played in a different conference?

"Well I have found that in most cases the players in the MAC tend to fly under the radar to a certain extent, mainly from a media standpoint. At the end of the day I realize that if you can play ball they will find you, and i feel that is a kinda what happened with me."

What would you tell NFL scouts about yourself to help separate you from the all the other talented pass rushers in this draft?

"I definitely think that there are some talented pass rushers in this draft. On the other hand I feel that there are only a hand full of players that have the ability to play as hard as I do and also I feel that I have a great upside mainly due to my maturity level and desire to become the most well rounded football player that I can."

Who are you most looking forward to playing against as a pro?

"That is in some ways a hard question to answer due to the fact that I have no way of knowing where I am going to end up. I will say that I am looking forward to playing against the best blockers in the league and also at the same time refining my game from a technical standpoint."

Now for personal stuff... favorite team?

"Chicago Bulls"

Favorite free-time activity?

"Watching a game with the guys."

What would your last meal be?

"Rib-eye steak"

Free trip any in the world...where would you go?

"Japan"

First thing you'll buy after signing your deal?

"Celebration dinner with the family that helped get me to this point."

Larry English Career Highlight Video (Part 1)


I want to thank Larry, Todd, and Jennifer more making this interview happen!

BoltHype Chats With Top D-Tackle Prospect Ron Brace

The San Diego Chargers head into the offseason with question marks along their Defensive Line; Who will replace Igor Olshansky? How much longer can Jamal Williams play at a high level? Is Luis Castillo injury prone? These questions are of particular concern to the team's fans as many of them view the Chargers greatest offseason need being the acquisition of a defensive lineman. While few players fit the prototype mold of a 3-4 nose guard, there is at least one player in this draft class who was built to play in the position; Defensive Tackle Ron Brace.

At 6'3" 330lbs, Brace is ideally suited for playing the nose in a 3-4 defense. After having a chance to speak with the mammoth tackle, I came away more convinced than ever that Brace could be the heir apparent to Jamal William's crucial two-gap responsibilities...

Ron, as one of the best nose guard prospects in this draft class, I would imagine that you are drawing some serious interest in teams that run a 3-4 defense. What teams have shown interest in you so far?

"I talked to a lot of teams at the Senior Bowl. It seems like a lot of the 3-4 teams really took an interest in me as a person and wanted to spend a lot of time with me. I remember my conversations with the Cowboys and Dolphins were pretty long. I also had a good conversation with the Chargers."

What did the Chargers say to you?

"They just told me that there aren’t many nose tackles in this draft and that they were happy with the way I was playing that week in Mobile."

How would you feel about playing in San Diego?

"I would love to play in San Diego. I’ve heard the city is beautiful."

Are you familiar with the team and some of the things they like to do on defense?

"I know they run a 3-4 and that means the outside linebackers bring a lot of pressure. I’m sure they use stunts and delayed blitzes on the inside and out, so I think it’d be nice to play in a system like that."

How would you feel about playing a three-man front?

"Playing a 3 man front would be fine with me. I’m a pretty big guy and have no problem taking on multiple defenders to clog the middle."

Based on your rising stock and unique abilities, where do you expect to be drafted?

"Man I really have no idea. I’ve heard some people say late first round. Some have said third. So I really don’t know what to expect. I’m just focused on testing well at the Combine and at my pro day. The rest will take care of itself."

You improved every year at Boston College, particularly with making plays behind the line of scrimmage. What do you attribute your success to? Was it a matter of improving on techniques like rush moves or do you think playing in a rotation kept you fresher in the third and fourth quarter?

"Just getting stronger, quicker, and smarter as each year went on. In high school, I used my size to my advantage and was able to basically throw people around to get to the quarterback. I had to really focus on working on my technique in college because the competition was so much better. So the longer I worked on that stuff, the more comfortable I felt."

Speaking of competition, the ACC is loaded with great offensive linemen. Who were some of the best guys you went up against in your career? And how did the competition level in your conference help prepare you for the NFL?

"There were a lot of talented guys throughout the years. One of them was my former teammate, Gosder Cherilus. We went at it every day in practice and I think that made me a better player."

Talk about your strengths as a player... what do you think your role would be in the NFL?

"I’m strong and very quick off the snap. I know how to take on multiple guys in order to let my teammates come in for the kill. I’ll collapse the pocket and stuff the run. Those are some of my best attributes. I think what a lot of people don’t realize is how light I am on my feet for a big man. I plan on being a starter in the League one day and just hope to have a long, healthy career."

Who are you most looking forward to playing against as a pro?

"I’m just excited to get going. Just being able to play professional ball is going to be a thrill for me."

Alright now for some fun questions: Favorite team, any sport?

"Playing in Boston, of course I’m a Celtics fan."

Favorite free-time activity?

"Listening to music and watching the History channel."

What would your last meal be?

"A big steak dinner."

Free trip any in the world...where would you go?

"To a tropical island, with good-looking women."

First thing you'll buy after signing your deal?

"I plan on putting money into the bank."


I want to thank Mr. Ron Brace and his agent Nate for making this interview happen. Good luck Ron, hope to talk again down the road!

BoltHype Chats With Coach Ron Rivera

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The San Diego Chargers defense has been a hot topic as of late, but fans saw warning signs from the start of the preseason. After a poor showing through the first half of the season, the Chargers decided to go in another direction and fired Defensive Coordinator Ted Cottrell, replacing him with Ron Rivera. A popular move among fans, there is a renewed excitement and hope that Rivera can help turn the season around.

Coach Rivera has been at the helm for a few weeks now as the team's Defensive Coordinator. His first outing was a successful one, in spite of a few shaky (but forgivable) moments. Rivera showed an ability to make adjustments at half time and his team held the Kansas City Chiefs to only 6 points in the second half.

I had the chance to take a bit of Coach Rivera's time and tried to uncover what his philosophy will be as he runs the defense for the rest of the season (and beyond?)

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There were some different personnel packages at times against Kansas City. In particular I noticed Paul Oliver was in on a couple of running downs. Are we going to see more of this, in terms of using certain guys in certain situations?

“Absolutely. We’re going to put players in positions to make plays.”

The Chargers don't often start rookie defenders, opting instead to bring them on slowly. What's keeping highly touted guys like Siler and Waters and Oliver from seeing more of the field? Is it a mental thing? Or are the guys in front of them simply better at this point?

“I think we’ve got some very solid veteran football players and it’s hard to displace them right now, especially in guys like Coop and Timmy Dobbins.”

Nine games into the season, teams have been writing a book on how to attack the Chargers defense. Is your philisophy to stay the course and improve execution, or do the Chargers need to present more looks?

“I think a combination of both. We need to continue to work on what we do best and at the same time present more challenges by adding some more to what we do.”

In terms of improving the pass rush, how does that happen without adding players to the roster? Do you have everything you need right now to generate those negative plays? What about blitzing defensive backs?

“Absolutely, and we did.”

Will Ron Rivera be in San Diego next season?

“Absolutely and I’m looking forward to it. I like my situation with the current circumstances. The question is, hopefully the club will have me.”

Special thanks go out to Bill and his awesome PR staff for working with me, Coach Rivera for taking the time, and the San Diego Chargers for running a first-class organization!

BoltHype Interview: Quentin Jammer

When you think of Quentin Jammer, a few things come to mind: punishing tackles, a relentless work ethic, a shutdown cover-guy, and a consistent player. Number 23 has taken his fair share of flack among media and fans, but Jammer has emerged as a top-flight NFL cornerback, despite his critics.

I had the chance to interview QJ, and I'd like to share our conversation with you all so that you can have the same appreciation for this player that I do. It's no secret that I'm a big Quentin Jammer fan, and you should be too:

Thanks for taking the time to answer a few questions for me Quentin. I've been a fan of yours for a long time and really appreciate the way you play the game.

You've been one of the most consistent players on the team since you were first drafted here to San Diego. You always show up to camp in top shape, you always play a full season, and every year you are pretty much guaranteed to make 60 tackles with 10 pass breakups; What do you attribute that consistency to?

"I attribute it to wanting to be the best player I can be. I want to be one of the best corners in the league. I think the only way to do that is by being consistent."

As a leader in the secondary, the younger players look up to you and see you as an example. How has making the transition from being a young player to a veteran leader been for you? When did you notice that you were becoming a leader in that way?

"It's been rough because I had to coach myself to be a good corner. I really didn't have anybody to help me. Once I was confident, in my mind, that I was a good corner then I was able to teach some of the young guys what I've learned. So far, so good since I mentored Antonio Cromartie and the guy went to the Pro Bowl."

As a seven year veteran of the San Diego Chargers, the fans have gotten a chance to watch your approach to the game. I'm sure you've heard criticism in the past, but that stuff has really died down. In your mind, what is your greatest strength as a football player and where do you feel you can still improve the most?

"I think my strength is being good at everything...not being good at only one aspect of the position. My weakness right now is my hands."

Who has been the best receiver you have faced in your career and who has been the best overall player you've faced, regardless of position?

"We have the best receiver I've ever faced in Chris Chambers. If I had to pick somebody that's not on my team that would have to be Marvin Harrison. He runs crisp routes. He's a veteran. He's been consistently good over the life of his career. If I had to pick one regardless of position, I would have to say Tom Brady. He makes his team better. He didn't always have the best talent at receiver or a running back but they always made the Pro Bowl. He scored points when they needed it."

What does Quentin Jammer do in his spare time? What's the perfect weekend like for him, both during the season and in the offseason?

"Spend time with my kids. My free time is pretty much devoted to them. When I do get a break from the kids, I like to enjoy a movie, some popcorn and dinner."

Is there is anything else you would like the fans to know about, maybe a website or charity that you'd like us to visit or support?

"The Jammer Family Foundation. We support the San Pasquale Academy which is a school for foster kids."

Thanks Jam, and thanks to Bill and his team!


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BoltHype Chats With Kris Dielman [Video]

We ran down Kris Dielman after practice and asked him a few questions. Kris is a heck of a football player, and he'll be the first to admit he's a bit rough around the edges but thats what we fans love about him.

A big 'thank you' goes out to Kris, Jamaal, Allison, Bill, and the San Diego Chargers for letting us come through... hopefully this we can do stuff like this more regularly.


BoltHype - Kris Dielman Interview 08-07-08 from Rob Zepeda on Vimeo.

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BoltHype Chats With Eric Weddle [Video]

We had a chance to chat with starting safety Eric Weddle after practice on Thursday. Eric has been having a heck of a camp so far, and it looks like he is more than ready to step up and have a big year for us.

I don't claim to be a great on-camera interviewer so don't hold my lack of professionalism against me. But I'll work on it and believe me, I'll get my act together. And Eric, I could have worded the whole "failed to capitalize" thing better - my bad dude. I'll do better next time, promise.

A big 'thank you' goes out to Eric, Jamaal, Allison, Bill, and the San Diego Chargers for letting us come through... hopefully this we can do stuff like this more regularly.


BoltHype - Eric Weddle Interview 08-07-08 from Rob Zepeda on Vimeo.

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BoltHype Interview - Kassim Osgood

Kassim Osgood took a moment out of a busy day of charity work to answer a few questions for BoltHype:





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Special thanks to Mandy and Megan of MSLPR, to The Home Depot, and to Kassim Osgood for helping arrange the interview!

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BoltHype Chats With Cletis "Flash" Gordon

EDIT: Since not everyone will know who Gordon is, I'll say a little more about him...

Cletis is a backup Cornerback who has a chance to play nickel packages in 2008. Physically, he is our most impressive backup corner not counting Antonio Cromartie. He is also a great kick returner who could eventually start in that role on special teams.

Cletis Gordon is a guy to watch in training camp. He is battling for a job just like everybody else, but he is an interesting player because he bring a lot of things to the table. With Michael Turner and Drayton Florence potentially gone in a year or two, Gordon might have a shot to return kicks (Turner's job) and play some corner (Florence's job).

Below is the transcript of the interview:


Hey CG,

1. How has the offseason been going for you? What is your approach heading into this season in terms of getting better?

This has been a productive offseason for me.

Ive been focusing on getting better as cornerback and as a returner. I approach everyday with the same focus and commitment to get better. I'm convinced that it will carry over to the season.

2. How competitive are the guys in the secondary? There seems to be battles going on at all the positions.

The competition is always great in football, especially in the secondary. I think it is good for our team. It brings out the best in players, and allows all of us to get better

3. After having some big returns last year in the preseason, I think you surprised some fans. Are you in the mix to return kicks this year?

Yes. I think the guy who is the most consistent at fielding the ball and making good decisions should get the job. I'm confident in my ability to do those things.

4. The Drayton Florence contract situation is something a lot of people will be watching out for this season. Have you talked to him and has he shared to you his desire to get resigned?

I really don't know any details about Drayton's situation. I just wish him the best.

5. In your opinion, what are the strengths to your game that separates you from other players.

My instincts, height, and speed are best attributes. Playing cornerback takes a lot of skill. I'm determined to improve in all aspects of my game.

6. Is Cromartie really the fastest guy on the team?

Cromartie is fast, but Flash Gordon is faster!! I think we need to set an event for the fans to come out and see the both of us race. We can settle this once and for all.

7. Who are your closest friends on the team?

Cromartie, Gross, and Gregory.

8. What receiver on the team seems the most improved from last year? Anybody going to step up and surprise some people?

It is a little early to tell. V Jack looks good. I was also impressed with Craig Davis' ability in our first mini camp. We can get a better idea of who is stepping up in training camp.


9. What two or three teams on your schedule do you think will be the fiercest competition for the Chargers?

When u have a team that went 14-2, it is hard to sneak up on anyone. All the teams will be ready to play us. The patriots, colts, and bears will be some good games to watch.

Thanks Flash, we'll have to do this again at some point...see you at training camp!


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BH Interview W/ Chargers Running Back Tyronne Gross

There is a lot of buzz these days about the uncertain future of Michael Turner days as a San Diego Charger. Fans know how well 'The Burner' has played when on the field and like the insurance he provides as a backup to LT. But Bolt fans also realize that it would be good to try to get something for Turner in a trade before he walks away in free agency.

So if Michael Turner is traded, where does that leave the Chargers in terms of running back depth? Who will compliment LT on Sundays as his backup?

Enter Tyronne Gross.

Gross could be another undrafted free agent gem AJ Smith and his front office have found. Tyronne was a proflic and dominant runner in the lesser known NAIA collegiate conference. While at Eastern Oregon University, Gross broke records and was virtually unstoppable on the field. He drew comparisons to Barry Sanders and defenses would focus their entire energy on trying to contain him.

Tyronne was impressive in his very limited field time last preseason. But those who watched Gross play saw an explosive runner with excellent balance. Tough carrying the rock, Gross also showed he can catch the ball out of the backfield.

I had a chance to ask Mr. Gross a few questions and gained some insight on a guy who will be getting more and more attention as the season nears:

BoltHype: You popped up on a lot of fan's radars during the preseason last year where you showed flashes. How has your first season in the NFL been for you?

Tyronne Gross: It's been a blessing just being here.

BH: As a productive running back in college, what was it like being on the Chargers' practice squad?

TG: It's an honor just being in the NFL. Yes I missed not being directly on the field at game time because I've been used to playing ever since Pop Warner. I realize this is a different level of football and I am going to give 100% as I always have. I'm looking forward to working my way up. I've been put in a great situation placed on a team with L.T. and Lorenzo; two great guys that I've always admired growing up and having the opportunity for them to mentor me one-on-one. I feel that God just put me in the right place at the right time.

BH: How do you maintain your focus and desire?

TG: Playing football has always been a passion for me. When I was growing up I lived football, I ate with the football in my arm, slept with the football on my pillow, and finally to have the opportunity to be on a professional level in truly a blessing.

BH: As you may have heard, Michael Turner is being shopped for a possible trade. Also, Ray Perkins has been recently signed by the Dolphins. What does this mean for you in terms of snaps in practice and on the depth chart?

TG: As of now I am coming into the offseason competing to be the #2 guy. I don't know what the situation with Turner is going to be. I wish him the best either way, whether he is here or away. As for me, I going to strive to be the best I can be.

BH: What would you say your strengths are?

TG: My height plays a big part, as you know I am not very tall. My quickness, speed, and work ethic are pluses for me. And to be able to run in the NFL, a big offensive line is prime.

BH: What can you bring to the table with this offense?

TG: My versatility, and I think I can be a change of pace guy as well as a compliment to L.T.

BH: Who is your closet friend on the team?

TG: All the guys on the team are my friends; they have all taken me under their wings and helped me in one way or another. But two of my closest friends are my Big Brother (Fullback) Lorenzo Neal, and my roommate (Corner) Cletis (Flash) Gordon.

BH: What are some interests you have beside football and what are your plans after you leave the game?

TG: I love music and especially gospel music, so I would like to write, direct / sing gospel with a great mass choir. And to work with children, especially the disadvantaged and those that are disabled, would be one of my ways of giving back to the community because God loves everybody and he doesn't just help us to help ourselves, he helps us in order that we may help others.

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I'd like to thank Tyronne for spending the time to answer my questions. I'm looking forward to seeing some more of what you can do at camps and during the preseason Tyronne!

BoltHype Talks To Safety Josh Gattis

I had the opportunity to ask Safety prospect Josh Gattis a few questions and he was kind enough to spend some time to answer them. I don't think there is any question how highly I feel about Josh as a football prospect, but people may not know that Josh Gattis is also a fine individual with an outstanding character and work ethic.

Below is the transcript of my interview with Josh:

Josh, first of all I'd like to thank you for taking the time to do this interview. I've watched you play at WFU all season long and would love to see you play for San Diego.

1. What teams would you most want to play for? What was your favorite NFL team growing up?

Growing up my favorite team was the Detroit Lions until the Panthers came to Charlotte, then I became a huge Carolina fan. In the NFL I will gladly play for any team, it is a business.

2. Not many guys coming out this year can match your 3 years of starting production in a tough division like the ACC. Your workout numbers, combined with your production, suggest you are an elite prospect. Do you think you would have been talked about more if you played for a bigger school like an LSU, Texas, Florida , Miami, etc?

I do feel like if I played at a bigger school my name would be talked about much more and possibly in the first round. Being from Wake Forest I'm fighting more of an uphill battle because our school has not produced as many high caliber players as some of the other schools. It bothers me sometimes to not get the attention, but in the end the teams know best. I feel I played in one of the best conferences and I produced at the highest level and I'm still overshadowed by other players from the same conference.

3. I'm sure you have heard about the suspensions of Chris Henry and Pacman Jones. Talk about the importance of character in players. Have teams you talked to expressed interest in your background as a person?

Character is big in the process of evaluating players with the teams. Players have to remember it is a privilege to play in the NFL; therefore we can not abuse that right. As far as me I don't have any character issues and teams like good clean guys.

4. Who was the best player you faced in college? Who are you looking forward to playing against at the next level?

The best player I've faced is without a doubt Calvin Johnson. Of course everyone knows his production on the field but I'm a little biased because I know him so well and I worked out with him at coach Tom Shaw's pre-combine training facility in Orlando. It really helps you appreciate a player like him when you see how hard he works out and he takes nothing for granted.

5. Your high tackle numbers suggest you are comfortable with defending the run, and at the same time you have impressive interception numbers. What are the strengths in your game and what areas are you still improving on?

I consider my game to be very versatile when it comes to defending the run and pass. I think what enables me to do so is my knowledge of defenses, my field vision and my playmaking ability. The one thing I continue to work on is taking better angles to the football. I believe angles allow you to make more plays and make them faster.

6. What position (Free or Strong) would you want to play in the NFL? How quickly can you learn a system and would you expect to start right away once drafted?

I consider myself to be a complete free safety. A guy that is athletic enough to make plays when the ball is in the air and yet still come up to make tackles. I can learn a system fast and I'm prepared to go in to whatever team and be there leader and play caller on defense as I compete for a starting position.

7. To wrap it up, what other interests do you have besides football?

Besides football I have a passion to work with kids. This past school year, and still currently, I am a volunteer teacher's assistant at a local elementary school in Winston Salem working with kids in a BED classroom. These kids are dealing with emotional and behavioral issues and are at risk of not being able to transfer over into regular classrooms which allow them to obtain the same education as other students. I know the NFL has great programs designed for players to be involved with working with underprivileged kids in low economic communities and I plan to be heavily involved. Also down the road I am really interested coaching and one day becoming a defensive coordinator.

Thanks again Josh for speaking with BoltHype and hopefully we can talk again at Chargers Mini Camp!

To stay current with Josh Gattis news, check out his official website JoshGattis22.com - there is a link to his site under the LINKS section on the left.