A big part of ensuring that the Chargers have a complete roster next season will not only consist of signing free agents and making draft selections, but re-signing some of their key unrestricted free agents.
With that being said, here are three key players that Los Angeles needs to bring back.
Adrian Phillips | S
This is a given for the Chargers. Not only was Phillips the most-improved defensive player, but he solidified himself as one of the leaders on the entire team. He took over as the team’s middle linebacker after Denzel Perryman went down with a season-ending injury and excelled in that role.
Phillips led the league in special teams tackles with 19. He finished the season with 94 tackles (77 solo), 10 passes defensed, four tackles for loss and one interception. The fifth-year player also earned first team All Pro, Pro Bowl and Professional Football Writers of America All-NFL Team honors for his work on special teams.
Darius Philon | DT
The Chargers interior defensive line improved from 2017 to 2018, and a lot of that credit goes to Philon. Philon was easily the best defensive tackles, leading the unit with nine tackles for loss and four sacks. He proved to be consistent on a weekly basis, whether it was rushing the pass or defending the run. He should be a no-brainer, and the cost to bring him back won’t be that significant.
Damion Square | DT
Square proved to be a versatile defender for the Chargers after not only playing inside, but kicking outside to defensive end five games into the season. Square was a key part to the rotation, constantly impacting the game as a pass rusher and run defender. He amassed 31 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks and three passes defensed. Like Philon, his price tag will most likely not be that high, which makes out to be a given signing.
