As it looks right now, the Chargers will begin the season with 18 of the 22 starters from the '05 season.
The big story, which everyone should be aware of by now is that Philip Rivers has taken the helm from Pro-Bowler Drew Brees. In many ways, how Rivers does will be the barometer of how successful the Charger season will be. Rivers could parallel big Ben Roethlisberger of Pittsburgh. He'll start with a team that has many weapons and a decent defense.
Let's begin on the offense; Rivers will have the luxury of handing the ball off to the amazing LaDainian Tomlinson (who has the luxury of following Pro-Bowler Lorenzo Neal into the hole). Rivers also has the best tight-end in football, Antonio Gates, to throw to. While the wide receivers don't scare too many teams, Keenan McCardell enjoyed one of his best seasons in '05, and Eric Parker is adept at converting third downs.
It's the offensive line that may prove to be an Achilles heel. Left-tackle Roman Oben has been slow to recover from foot surgery and has been placed on the PUP list, and his replacement, rookie Marcus McNeill is playing with a broken hand. How quickly the line gels will determine much.
On the defensive side, the front seven is stacked. Playing the 3-4 defense, this group was the number one defense against the run in '05. Jamal Williams is a stud at nose-tackle, while Luis Castillo and Igor Olshansky are both young and talented ends.
The linebacking core, led by the defensive rookie of the year, Shawne Merriman, is deep (although Donnie Edwards seems malcontent, and may be traded, and Steve Foley, was apparently shot by an off-duty police officer after a long car chase recently). Both have capable backups in Matt Wilhelm and Shaun Phillips, respectfully.
The defensive backfield is another story. Quentin Jammer has never lived up to expectations at corner, Drayton Florence mans the other side, while No. 1 draft choice Antonio Cromartie becomes the third man out for the time being. Marlon McCree was brought in via free-agency to upgrade the free safety spot.
The kicking game is solid. Mike Scifres is an excellent punter, and Nate Kaeding more than adequate with the place-kicking duties. The return game may need some tweaking after losing Darren Sproles for the season due to injury.
Injuries could be another key, lack of quality depth at quarterback, offensive line, and secondary could eventually spell trouble.
Personally, I expect Philip Rivers to have some growing pains, as all young QBs do, but he's no Ryan Leaf. With a much easier schedule than last year, I could see the Chargers winning nine or 10 games if Rivers plays well, if he doesn't, six or seven seems more likely.
In the AFC, even 10 wins may not be enough to ensure a playoff spot.
