
Jeff Williams breaks down the Chargers' recent action in free agency as they sign a veteran corner, shop their backup QB, and watch their former all-pro running back sign with the New York Jets.
LT SIGNS WITH THE JETS
LaDainian Tomlinson made it official Sunday, signing a two-year, $5.1 million contract with the Jets. LT will be backup to Jets RB Shonn Greene and will likely serve as the primary 3rd-down back. So why did he choose the Jets over the Vikings? I think there are two reasons. First, I think the Brett Favre factor may have worked against the Vikings. Favre may be back this season, but what is the likelihood that he will be playing for two (or more seasons)? Probably not very good, and LT is on record saying he thinks he has a few more years in him. But I think the most important factor in LT's decision is the offensive mindset of Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer. The Jets believe in running the ball, and they have the offensive line to do it. If you were a running back with something to prove, there would be no better situation to find yourself in then with the Jets. LT, I'm still sad to see you go, but I think you made the right call.
WHITEHURST DEAL IMMINENT?
Reports have Chargers 3rd string quarterback Charlie Whitehurst close to an agreement with either the Seattle Seahawks or the Arizona Cardinals. It will be very interesting to see how this deal will go down. As was previously reported on Bolthype, Whitehurst's 3rd round tender guarantees the Chargers 3rd round compensation if Whitehurst signs with another team (if the Chargers decide not to match). That's where it gets really interesting, since the Seahawks don't have a 3rd round pick in this year's draft. Rumor has it the Chargers may try to swing a deal to move up in the first round as compensation for Whitehurst if he signs with Seattle. All this for Charlie Whitehurst? I would have been excited to just get a 3rd rounder! The 3rd string QB behind Rivers and Volek may be one of the most irrelevant positions in the NFL.
CHARGERS SIGN STRICKLAND
Helping to fill a hole created by the departure of Antonio Cromartie, the Chargers signed former Jets cornerback Donald Strickland. Strickland will likely be a contender for the nickle spot on the Chargers D, which could prove to be one of the more intriguing position battles (with Steven Gregory and a possible rookie CB) in training camp this year.
FREE AGENCY
Not surprising, yet still disappointing... No, I'm not talking about Rex Ryan's weight-loss surgery (that wasn't a joke- google it). I'm talking about the Chargers consistent lack of free agent activity. If there is significant free agent news involving the Chargers, you can be sure it will involve a former Chargers player signing with someone else. With restricted free agents now being eyed by teams with big needs and open pockets, how soon will it be before the likes of a Merriman or Jackson are courted by opposing teams? Can this team afford to lose any of it's top restricted free agent talent? If so, who are you most willing to let go? Sound off and let us know what you think!


















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