The Los Angeles Chargers made a flurry of moves this offseason after narrowly missing the postseason. Los Angeles improved their roster a ton with trades, signings, and through the draft.
The defense is bolstered with the additions of J.C. Jackson and Khalil Mack, who are solidified stars. The Chargers added even more in the draft with solid selections and value in multiple rounds.
In the first round, the Chargers upgraded their offensive line by selecting offensive guard Zion Johnson. Protecting quarterback Justin Herbert is vital in the most competitive division in football. Johnson helps them do that, as he will be a quality offensive guard for years to come.
The rest of the draft was used to get great value at different positions. Their rookie class will be important in taking down the rest of the fierce AFC West division. The Las Vegas Raiders, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs all have good rosters and will make a playoff push.
The season is set to have intriguing divisional matchups, as many divisional games should come down to the wire.
Having impactful rookies in year one will be essential in gaining an edge in the division. With that said, here is the Chargers' best rookie sleeper to make an impact for the 2022 NFL season.
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Chargers Rookie Sleeper for 2022 NFL Season
Running Back Isaiah Spiller
While Los Angeles has a great running back in Austin Ekeler, they have lacked a solid second-string back. Isaiah Spiller can be a good complementary back to Ekeler, which could help the offense reach a new level.
Last season in college, Spiller had 179 carries for 1,011 yards and six touchdowns. He is excellent at picking which lane to rush through, and his elusiveness can lead to big plays downfield.
He is also great at making cuts, leading to extra yards on runs. His running style and bigger frame will fit well alongside Ekeler, who is more of a balanced back and is great in the receiving game.
Last season, Ekeler rushed for 911 yards and 12 touchdowns, which was the most productive season for him rushing by far. He was also a quality piece as a receiver, finishing with 70 receptions for 647 yards and eight touchdowns.
Spiller will allow Ekeler to not have as many touches as a rusher in the regular season, which will help him be fresh for the postseason. In college, Spiller showed that he could take on a heavy amount of carries and still be a productive player. In an elite offense with Herbert at the helm will help Spiller have an easy transition. He won't be relied upon as a top weapon, which will allow him to play to his strengths.
The Chargers have a well-rounded roster and have a proven young star quarterback in Herbert. In his second campaign, Herbert threw for 5,014 yards on a 65.9 percent completion percentage. He threw for 38 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. Herbert is great at extending plays, which was a major part of his successful season. Herbert earned his first Pro Bowl nod following his improvement in year two.
With a gifted offense and much-improved defense, Los Angeles should be a contender for the Super Bowl this season. The impact of rookies like Spiller will be crucial to making a run at the Lombardi Trophy.
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