When we get to this point in the summer, talks typically aren’t of extensions unless it’s about big-time players. Normally, this part of the summer brings about conversations regarding who will or will not be with the team once training camp ends and who the starters will be. However, there are several players the Chargers should strongly consider locking up sooner rather than later. And while these players might not have achieved stardom yet, they’re players who’ve been pivotal to Bolt’s success since their coming to Los Angeles.
Image: Los Angeles Times
Asante Samuel Jr., CB
Since Asante Samuel came to the Chargers, he’s been a force to be reckoned with. While some seasons may have favored him better than others, stats-wise, it must be remembered how inconsistent CB statistics can be on a year-to-year basis. Yet the verdict on Samuel is that he’s LA’s best outside cornerback going into the year; a well-deserved recognition.
As of today, Samuel’s contract will expire after the upcoming season. But while Samuel may have his ups and downs, he’s a player who the Chargers might not be able to afford to lose long-term. Yes, the Bolts drafted two corners this past draft, but Tarheeb Still projects to be more of a slot corner, and the jury isn’t yet out on Cam Hart. Furthermore, with what’s happened with the team in terms of change, it might be good to keep someone in the building who’s been with the club for a bit.
Image: Sports Illustrated
Tuli Tuipulotu, Edge
After what Tuli was able to produce on the field last year during his rookie campaign, there shouldn’t be an argument as to how important he is to the club. But while he was awesome last season, there is an argument that it’s too early to extend him given that he only has one year under his belt.
However, the goal is to keep the good players as long as possible on deals that are franchise-friendly. Signing Tuli soon will ensure that the Bolts keep an elite player on the edge of their defensive line. And, hypothetically, he should only be getting better in the coming years as he gains more experience in the NFL.
Image: Sports Illustrated
Rashawn Slater, OT
This one in particular should be a no-brainer. After years and years of abysmal offensive line play, the Chargers selected Rashawn Slater in the first round a few years back. He’s been a godsend since coming to LA. While some of his time in the NFL has been hampered by injury, he’s played at an All-Pro level when healthy.
After the upcoming season, there’s a club option the team could pick up that’s worth around $19 million. But, this could be a steal since a $19 million per year average wouldn’t even crack the top 10 in highest-paid offensive linemen. While locking up Slater might come at a hefty cost, he’s a pivotal member of the team as well as Greg Roman and Joe Harbaugh’s offense.
Image: Pro Football Network
Joshua Palmer, WR
Joshua Palmer on a Super Bowl contender, is probably a team’s WR3. This is no knock on Palmer since he’s been clutch for the Bolts, stepping up after injuries plagued the team’s WR room. However, it’s because of his reliability and high-level play when needed for why I think the team should lock him up.
Going into this year, Palmer will likely take on the role of either WR1 or WR2. Additionally, Palmer will also be a free agent after the season’s end. The team has high hopes for second-rounder Ladd McConkey, and equally high hopes for second-year man Quentin Johnston. But, as with Asante Samuel, familiarity is also key to a franchise’s success. Joshua Palmer’s familiarity with the fanbase and the franchise could be a key component to the club’s long-term success.
Image: Sporting News
Cameron Dicker, K
Just as offensive line play in years past hasn’t been anything special, the inconsistencies at kicker date back to Anthony Lynn’s days as the team’s head coach. But since Cameron Dicker joined the Chargers he hasn’t been able to miss. Even this past summer, coach Harbaugh was found joking about the subject.
Dicker will hit the free-agent market at the end of the season. And with how well he’s been performing the past few seasons, it wouldn’t be surprising to see several teams flock towards him. While some might say that defense wins championships, special teams are equally as important. That is especially true with how many contested ballgames the Chargers have lost in recent years. Cameron Dicker is a Pro-Bowler that the Bolts seriously need to consider locking up before the opportunity passes.
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