The Los Angeles Chargers have one of the NFL’s more talented rosters on paper, but they have failed to put it all together.
A big reason why is injuries, something that hit the team hard last season.
Keenan Allen, who has been their No. 1 wide receiver for the last several years, was one of those players hit by the injury bug, as he appeared in just 10 regular season games.
Allen is vital to the Bolts’ success, and he credited former Los Angeles quarterback Philip Rivers for his success.
“Without Phil I’m probably not here right now.” -Keenan Allen on Phillip Rivers@BussinWTB presented by @ChevyTrucks #ad #Silverado pic.twitter.com/63Gvpl2Yit
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) August 25, 2023
According to Allen, Rivers was like a coach on the field, and he was also meticulous when it came to studying film in between games.
He was the Chargers’ starting QB from 2006 until 2019, and during that time, they made the playoffs six times, which included a trip to the AFC Championship Game during the 2007 season.
When he left following the 2019 campaign, L.A. had the good fortune of drafting Justin Herbert as the No. 6 choice in the 2020 draft, which ensured a smooth transition.
Herbert quickly emerged as an elite quarterback, which means Allen would continue to have someone who could get him the ball, even in tight situations.
The Chargers were able to win 10 games and make the playoffs in 2022, but they fell apart in the wild card round by blowing a 27-0 lead and losing in the final seconds to the upstart Jacksonville Jaguars.
They have added rookie wideout Quentin Johnston, who they’re hoping will emerge as a speed threat and free up Allen closer to the line of scrimmage.
