AFC West: Eric Weddle
What to make of Peyton Manning's future?
April, 24, 2012
Apr 24
2:20
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
A lot has been made of Archie Manning saying he thinks Peyton Manning is taking his career “year to year.”
In my opinion, way too much has been made by it. I think it would be wrong to translate Archie Manning’s words as saying his son is going to retire at the end of the 2012 season. Basically, Archie Manning was saying there are no guarantees and you have to take it one season at a time. That’s fair.
The Broncos expect Manning, 36, to be their quarterback for at least three more seasons, and they’d love for him to play for the life of his five-year contract. And let’s be real: Manning is not working so hard to come back from a neck injury to play just one more season. He wants to stick around a while.
In other AFC West news:
In my opinion, way too much has been made by it. I think it would be wrong to translate Archie Manning’s words as saying his son is going to retire at the end of the 2012 season. Basically, Archie Manning was saying there are no guarantees and you have to take it one season at a time. That’s fair.
The Broncos expect Manning, 36, to be their quarterback for at least three more seasons, and they’d love for him to play for the life of his five-year contract. And let’s be real: Manning is not working so hard to come back from a neck injury to play just one more season. He wants to stick around a while.
In other AFC West news:
- ESPN’s Adam Schefter is reporting the Broncos are no longer expected to deal for Eagles cornerback Asante Samuel. Denver tired to work out a new deal with Samuel last week, but was unable to do so.
- Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith wants to play with San Diego safety Eric Weddle. The Chargers wouldn’t mind accommodating him. The Chargers are looking for a safety. They could trade up to get Alabama’s Mark Barron or trade down for Smith.
- New Oakland general manager Reggie McKenzie is looking for students of the game. That is likely one of the reasons Oakland visited with so many draft prospects.
- Oakland middle linebacker Rolando McClain reportedly underwent experimental stem cell therapy on his knee and an ankle. He has been dealing with pain in the leg.
- The Broncos’ brass had a nice moment with newly retired Brian Dawkins.
Broncos land veteran safety Michael Adams
March, 15, 2012
Mar 15
7:15
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The Broncos’ first foray into free agency wasn’t the big hit they were waiting for, but it does fill a hole in Denver.
The Broncos agreed to a two-year deal with Cleveland safety Mike Adams, who fills Denver’s need for a veteran safety.
Adams has a chance to start for Denver. He played 77 percent of the defensive snaps for the Browns last season. With Brian Dawkins likely not returning -- Denver isn't expected to bring him back if he doesn’t retire -- Adams gives the Broncos much-needed experience at safety.
The team drafted Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter last season. Moore began the season as a starter, but he regressed. By the end of the season, Carter was by far the better player. The team still has hopes for Moore, but Adams offers insurance if either youngster struggles.
In other AFC West safety news:
Steve Gregory, formerly of San Diego, agreed to terms with New England. Gregory was an injury replacement for Bob Sanders last year. Gregory is probably a bit underrated, and his departure will have the Chargers looking for a partner for Eric Weddle early in the upcoming NFL draft.
Alabama’s Mark Barron and Notre Dame’s Harrison Smith are possibilities for the Chargers in the draft.
The Broncos agreed to a two-year deal with Cleveland safety Mike Adams, who fills Denver’s need for a veteran safety.
Adams has a chance to start for Denver. He played 77 percent of the defensive snaps for the Browns last season. With Brian Dawkins likely not returning -- Denver isn't expected to bring him back if he doesn’t retire -- Adams gives the Broncos much-needed experience at safety.
The team drafted Rahim Moore and Quinton Carter last season. Moore began the season as a starter, but he regressed. By the end of the season, Carter was by far the better player. The team still has hopes for Moore, but Adams offers insurance if either youngster struggles.
In other AFC West safety news:
Steve Gregory, formerly of San Diego, agreed to terms with New England. Gregory was an injury replacement for Bob Sanders last year. Gregory is probably a bit underrated, and his departure will have the Chargers looking for a partner for Eric Weddle early in the upcoming NFL draft.
Alabama’s Mark Barron and Notre Dame’s Harrison Smith are possibilities for the Chargers in the draft.
Miami DT may interest Chiefs, Chargers
February, 27, 2012
Feb 27
9:00
AM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Don’t be surprised if we see an AFC West bidding war between two 3-4 defensive teams for a massive defensive tackle.
Miami’s Paul Soliai is headed to free agency and I think both the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Diego Chargers will be interested in him. There will be a lot of interest in Soliai, but I wouldn’t be shocked if both the Chiefs and the Chargers make big plays for him.
He’d fill a need for both teams. He is a terrific anchor for a 3-4 defense. Soliai is 6-foot-4 and he weighs 355 pounds. While Soliai doesn’t put up a lot of numbers, coaches and scouts around the league think he is an upper-echelon player because he plugs the hole in the running game and he wears down offensive linemen.
That type of player has been exactly what has been missing from both the Chiefs and the Chargers.
The Chiefs have more cap room, so they may have more flexibility to get a deal done with Soliai. Also, the Chargers have other needs. But the Chargers are bent on getting better on defense and plugging Soliai on the defensive line would be a fine start.
San Diego could also have an advantage. Soliai went to Utah with San Diego safety Eric Weddle and the two players share an agent.
Miami’s Paul Soliai is headed to free agency and I think both the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Diego Chargers will be interested in him. There will be a lot of interest in Soliai, but I wouldn’t be shocked if both the Chiefs and the Chargers make big plays for him.
He’d fill a need for both teams. He is a terrific anchor for a 3-4 defense. Soliai is 6-foot-4 and he weighs 355 pounds. While Soliai doesn’t put up a lot of numbers, coaches and scouts around the league think he is an upper-echelon player because he plugs the hole in the running game and he wears down offensive linemen.
That type of player has been exactly what has been missing from both the Chiefs and the Chargers.
The Chiefs have more cap room, so they may have more flexibility to get a deal done with Soliai. Also, the Chargers have other needs. But the Chargers are bent on getting better on defense and plugging Soliai on the defensive line would be a fine start.
San Diego could also have an advantage. Soliai went to Utah with San Diego safety Eric Weddle and the two players share an agent.
Talking with Chargers GM A.J. Smith
February, 23, 2012
Feb 23
5:35
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
INDIANAPOLIS -- I had a chance to meet with San Diego Chargers general manager A.J. Smith on Thursday.
In the big picture, Smith said his team must address its defense as it attempts another playoff run. However, Smith’s most pressing issue is the offensive line. Smith said the line “is the area that is causing [him] to lose sleep.”
However, Smith may rest easy soon enough. There may be more clarity on the group in the near future. Center Nick Hardwick is a free agent and has said he wants to return. Smith wants him back, but a deal has to be completed.
Guard Kris Dielman is coming off a concussion that ended his 2011 season prematurely. He has even considered retiring. But he is expected to play, even though a final decision hasn’t been made.
The team is expected to release left tackle Marcus McNeill, who is dealing with a possible career-ending neck injury. He is due a bonus early next month. Jared Gaither took over for McNeill last season and did well. The team hopes to re-sign him in free agency but, like Hardwick, there are no guarantees.
“We don’t know how it will play out on the line,” Smith said. “A lot of things can happen. There are things we want to happen, but that doesn’t mean they will happen. But we will know soon enough.”
What Smith wants to see is improvement on defense. Smith said he is excited about new defensive coordinator John Pagano, who was a longtime assistant coach in San Diego. The Chargers' defense sagged in its one year under former coordinator Greg Manusky, who was fired in January.
Smith said the key to improving the defense is becoming a better unit on third down. The team was last in the NFL in getting off the field on third down in 2011. “That is the first thing we have to figure out,” Smith said.
Smith said he is excited about several players, including young defensive linemen Corey Liuget, Vaughn Martin and Cam Thomas. The Chargers, who may cut Luis Castillo, will add to the line, and they are expecting big things from the unit under Pagano’s guidance.
Smith wouldn’t specifically address getting pass-rushers in free agency, but he did say the team needs more of them. If the Chargers do look at pass-rushers on the open market, the Colts’ Robert Mathis and the Lions’ Cliff Avril (if he isn’t given the franchise tag) could be intriguing options.
Smith said he wants to keep receiver Vincent Jackson but wouldn’t say whether he thinks Jackson will stay. I think the team’s best scenario is to let Jackson explore his options in free agency and then try to sign him. That was the tact the team used with safety Eric Weddle last year. Unless other events unfold unexpectedly, don’t expect the Chargers to give Jackson the franchise tag.
Smith said he was pleased to see quarterback Philip Rivers finish the season strong and that he's not concerned about Rivers experiencing early-season struggles again like he did last year.
“He was pressing” Smith said. “He knows it. That happens, but Philip is fine.”
In the big picture, Smith said his team must address its defense as it attempts another playoff run. However, Smith’s most pressing issue is the offensive line. Smith said the line “is the area that is causing [him] to lose sleep.”
However, Smith may rest easy soon enough. There may be more clarity on the group in the near future. Center Nick Hardwick is a free agent and has said he wants to return. Smith wants him back, but a deal has to be completed.
Guard Kris Dielman is coming off a concussion that ended his 2011 season prematurely. He has even considered retiring. But he is expected to play, even though a final decision hasn’t been made.
The team is expected to release left tackle Marcus McNeill, who is dealing with a possible career-ending neck injury. He is due a bonus early next month. Jared Gaither took over for McNeill last season and did well. The team hopes to re-sign him in free agency but, like Hardwick, there are no guarantees.
“We don’t know how it will play out on the line,” Smith said. “A lot of things can happen. There are things we want to happen, but that doesn’t mean they will happen. But we will know soon enough.”
What Smith wants to see is improvement on defense. Smith said he is excited about new defensive coordinator John Pagano, who was a longtime assistant coach in San Diego. The Chargers' defense sagged in its one year under former coordinator Greg Manusky, who was fired in January.
Smith said the key to improving the defense is becoming a better unit on third down. The team was last in the NFL in getting off the field on third down in 2011. “That is the first thing we have to figure out,” Smith said.
Smith said he is excited about several players, including young defensive linemen Corey Liuget, Vaughn Martin and Cam Thomas. The Chargers, who may cut Luis Castillo, will add to the line, and they are expecting big things from the unit under Pagano’s guidance.
Smith wouldn’t specifically address getting pass-rushers in free agency, but he did say the team needs more of them. If the Chargers do look at pass-rushers on the open market, the Colts’ Robert Mathis and the Lions’ Cliff Avril (if he isn’t given the franchise tag) could be intriguing options.
Smith said he wants to keep receiver Vincent Jackson but wouldn’t say whether he thinks Jackson will stay. I think the team’s best scenario is to let Jackson explore his options in free agency and then try to sign him. That was the tact the team used with safety Eric Weddle last year. Unless other events unfold unexpectedly, don’t expect the Chargers to give Jackson the franchise tag.
Smith said he was pleased to see quarterback Philip Rivers finish the season strong and that he's not concerned about Rivers experiencing early-season struggles again like he did last year.
“He was pressing” Smith said. “He knows it. That happens, but Philip is fine.”
There have been several changes to the AFC Pro Bowl team since the team was announced originally last month. Here is an updated list of AFC West players who will be playing in the game Sunday in Honolulu:
DENVER
CB Champ Bailey
LT Ryan Clady
S Brian Dawkins
LB Elvis Dumervil
RB Willis McGahee
LB Von Miller
KANSAS CITY
LB Tamba Hali
LB Derrick Johnson
OAKLAND
LS Jon Condo
K Sebastian Janikowski
P Shane Lechler
DL Richard Seymour
SAN DIEGO
TE Antonio Gates
WR Vincent Jackson
RB Ryan Mathews
QB Philip Rivers
S Eric Weddle
DENVER
CB Champ Bailey
LT Ryan Clady
S Brian Dawkins
LB Elvis Dumervil
RB Willis McGahee
LB Von Miller
KANSAS CITY
LB Tamba Hali
LB Derrick Johnson
OAKLAND
LS Jon Condo
K Sebastian Janikowski
P Shane Lechler
DL Richard Seymour
SAN DIEGO
TE Antonio Gates
WR Vincent Jackson
RB Ryan Mathews
QB Philip Rivers
S Eric Weddle
Two Chargers added to Pro Bowl team
January, 23, 2012
Jan 23
5:10
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Philip Rivers will have two more familiar weapons at his disposal in the Pro Bowl on Sunday.
San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson and running back Ryan Mathews have been named to the AFC Pro Bowl team. Jackson replaces New England’s Wes Welker and Mathews is subbing for Baltimore’s Ray Rice.
Jackson had 60 catches for 1,106 yards and nine touchdowns. Mathews had 1,091 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
San Diego safety Eric Weddle and tight end Antonio Gates are also on the team. It will be interesting to see how many times Rivers, Mathews, Jackson and Gates will be on the field at the same.
San Diego receiver Vincent Jackson and running back Ryan Mathews have been named to the AFC Pro Bowl team. Jackson replaces New England’s Wes Welker and Mathews is subbing for Baltimore’s Ray Rice.
Jackson had 60 catches for 1,106 yards and nine touchdowns. Mathews had 1,091 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
San Diego safety Eric Weddle and tight end Antonio Gates are also on the team. It will be interesting to see how many times Rivers, Mathews, Jackson and Gates will be on the field at the same.
Weekend mail call:
Donald from parts unknown wants to know if Denver could draft Houston quarterback Case Keenum or Boise State’s Kellen Moore.
Bill Williamson: At this point, it is difficult to pinpoint exactly what Denver will do in the draft at quarterback. I have a feeling it may take a quarterback, but it may not do it until the third day. I think the Broncos aren’t looking for a young quarterback to compete with Tim Tebow this year, so there is no need to draft one early. That could happen next year if Tebow fails in 2012. However, as far as this draft goes, Denver football leader John Elway may look for a bargain that fits what he likes. Both Keenum and Moore are considered third-day picks. They are successful, capable quarterbacks, but they both lack ideal NFL quarterback size. I think if a player like Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden was available in the fourth or fifth round, he could interest Elway more because of his size.
Evan from San Diego wants to know if the Chargers may move cornerback Quentin Jammer to safety.
BW: It has already been reported that Jammer will not move to safety next year. Jammer, who’ll turn 33 in June, saw his production slip some in 2011. I think he could be moved to safety down the road. But for now, expect the Chargers to pursue a starting safety (perhaps in the first round of the draft) to pair with Eric Weddle and then try to add another cornerback to the rotation.
Dennis from Ontario, Ore. wants to know if the Broncos could take Oregon’s LaMichael James in the second or third round.
BW: The only thing I worry about James fitting in Denver is his lack of size. He is more of a change of pace back and Denver may be looking for a bigger back that projects to be able to carry a bigger load. However, if he is available in the third round and the Broncos like him, perhaps it will be a fit. Still, I think Denver will be looking for a more complete back early in the draft.
Donald from parts unknown wants to know if Denver could draft Houston quarterback Case Keenum or Boise State’s Kellen Moore.
Bill Williamson: At this point, it is difficult to pinpoint exactly what Denver will do in the draft at quarterback. I have a feeling it may take a quarterback, but it may not do it until the third day. I think the Broncos aren’t looking for a young quarterback to compete with Tim Tebow this year, so there is no need to draft one early. That could happen next year if Tebow fails in 2012. However, as far as this draft goes, Denver football leader John Elway may look for a bargain that fits what he likes. Both Keenum and Moore are considered third-day picks. They are successful, capable quarterbacks, but they both lack ideal NFL quarterback size. I think if a player like Oklahoma State’s Brandon Weeden was available in the fourth or fifth round, he could interest Elway more because of his size.
Evan from San Diego wants to know if the Chargers may move cornerback Quentin Jammer to safety.
BW: It has already been reported that Jammer will not move to safety next year. Jammer, who’ll turn 33 in June, saw his production slip some in 2011. I think he could be moved to safety down the road. But for now, expect the Chargers to pursue a starting safety (perhaps in the first round of the draft) to pair with Eric Weddle and then try to add another cornerback to the rotation.
Dennis from Ontario, Ore. wants to know if the Broncos could take Oregon’s LaMichael James in the second or third round.
BW: The only thing I worry about James fitting in Denver is his lack of size. He is more of a change of pace back and Denver may be looking for a bigger back that projects to be able to carry a bigger load. However, if he is available in the third round and the Broncos like him, perhaps it will be a fit. Still, I think Denver will be looking for a more complete back early in the draft.
Two AFC West players made all All-Pro honors.
Kansas City linebacker Derrick Johnson and San Diego safety Eric Weddle were honored by The Associated Press for their performances this season.
Both players were outstanding in 2011. Johnson had 133 tackles and he was a consistent playmaker for the Chiefs. Weddle was tied for the NFL league with seven interceptions and he was always around the ball. Both players have recently signed contract extensions and should be in the AFC West for a long time.
Oakland punter Shane Lechler and Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski were also first-team candidates, yet San Francisco punter Andy Lee and San Francisco kicker David Akers were named to the All-Pro Team.
In other AFC West news:
A big playoff run by Tim Tebow and the Broncos would be shocking, but ESPN Stats & Information shows unlikely playoff success has happened before.
Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones is staying in school so there is one less quarterback available in the draft if Denver tries to replace Tebow in the first round.
The Raiders and Chiefs had trouble with penalties on special teams, while the Chargers committed the fewest penalties on special teams in the NFL. After being awful on special teams last year, the Chargers made good strides this season.
TebowMania lives … in Chicago.
Kansas City linebacker Derrick Johnson and San Diego safety Eric Weddle were honored by The Associated Press for their performances this season.
Both players were outstanding in 2011. Johnson had 133 tackles and he was a consistent playmaker for the Chiefs. Weddle was tied for the NFL league with seven interceptions and he was always around the ball. Both players have recently signed contract extensions and should be in the AFC West for a long time.
Oakland punter Shane Lechler and Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski were also first-team candidates, yet San Francisco punter Andy Lee and San Francisco kicker David Akers were named to the All-Pro Team.
In other AFC West news:
A big playoff run by Tim Tebow and the Broncos would be shocking, but ESPN Stats & Information shows unlikely playoff success has happened before.
Oklahoma quarterback Landry Jones is staying in school so there is one less quarterback available in the draft if Denver tries to replace Tebow in the first round.
The Raiders and Chiefs had trouble with penalties on special teams, while the Chargers committed the fewest penalties on special teams in the NFL. After being awful on special teams last year, the Chargers made good strides this season.
TebowMania lives … in Chicago.
» NFC Wrap-ups: East | West | North | South » AFC: East | West | North | South
Arrow indicates direction team is trending.
Final power ranking: 16
Preseason Power Ranking: 10
Biggest surprise: The slow start by quarterback Philip Rivers. There is no doubt Rivers, who turned 30 last month, is still an elite player. But he had a rough first 10 games in which he threw 17 of his 20 interceptions. Rivers made crucial fourth-quarter mistakes during the six-game losing streak that doomed San Diego’s season. Will anyone forget the dropped snap in Kansas City on Halloween night with the Chargers about to kick a game-winning field goal? That was the difference in the Chargers not winning the division title. But Rivers settled down late in the season and finished strong. Quarterback is not a problem in San Diego.
Biggest disappointment: The Chargers were not happy with the performance of defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. They had a dominant unit under Ron Rivera, whom Manusky replaced after Carolina hired Rivera as head coach. Manusky promised an aggressive defense, but the players never really adapted to his way — and the Chargers were far from a special defense this season.
Biggest need: There are plenty of needs in San Diego. It needs help at every level of the defense and it may need three new starters on the offensive line with guard Kris Dielman (concussion), tackle Marcus McNeill (neck) and center Nick Hardwick as possibilities for retirement. While it’s difficult to pinpoint this team’s greatest need, a top safety could help the process on defense.
Team MVP: Safety Eric Weddle. He had seven interceptions and made several big plays. Weddle followed up his signing of a monster contract to stay in San Diego this summer with his first Pro Bowl. He is the quarterback of the defense and a clutch performer.
Future starts on defense: Expect a bunch of changes on defense. Every layer of the unit will likely see additions, and there could be big changes on the defensive coaching staff. The Chargers like their core on offense, but tweaking is needed on defense.
Arrow indicates direction team is trending.
Final power ranking: 16
Preseason Power Ranking: 10
[+] Enlarge
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesSafety Eric Weddle's seven interceptions were a bright spot for the Chargers' lackluster defense.
Jim McIsaac/Getty ImagesSafety Eric Weddle's seven interceptions were a bright spot for the Chargers' lackluster defense.Biggest disappointment: The Chargers were not happy with the performance of defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. They had a dominant unit under Ron Rivera, whom Manusky replaced after Carolina hired Rivera as head coach. Manusky promised an aggressive defense, but the players never really adapted to his way — and the Chargers were far from a special defense this season.
Biggest need: There are plenty of needs in San Diego. It needs help at every level of the defense and it may need three new starters on the offensive line with guard Kris Dielman (concussion), tackle Marcus McNeill (neck) and center Nick Hardwick as possibilities for retirement. While it’s difficult to pinpoint this team’s greatest need, a top safety could help the process on defense.
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Future starts on defense: Expect a bunch of changes on defense. Every layer of the unit will likely see additions, and there could be big changes on the defensive coaching staff. The Chargers like their core on offense, but tweaking is needed on defense.
Players celebrate San Diego decision
January, 3, 2012
Jan 3
8:05
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
One of the reasons why Norv Turner and A.J. Smith are being brought back to head the San Diego Chargers for the 2012 season is the support they had from the players and the way the team finished the season.
Thanks to the Chargers' PR department, here is a sampling of quotes from a happy bunch of players:
Philip Rivers
On knowing Norv is his coach next season:
“It’s exciting. I think there’s still a great level of disappointment in the season with the way it ended and us not playing into January. It’s exciting to know from a continuity standpoint that our head coach is coming back. It wasn’t the season we wanted but I think there’s no doubt keeping that continuity gives us the best chance to win. Take a little time off and gear up again.”
On fans not knowing what goes on behind closed doors:
“It would be just like in any other place. It would be impossible to know unless you’re in here. Unless you’re doing it daily, with the game plans and the practices, training camps, to really know and appreciate. It’s a lot easier -- believe me, even me -- watching a Monday Night game at the house, where I would throw it than when I’m out there. That’s just the way it is. I think the fans here are passionate, they want to win and they want to win a championship. We do too. We’ve won a lot of games at home the last five years. We’ve won 29 games at home and they (the fans) have had a lot to do with that. Their support is huge. The one thing I know is you win and they’ll be supporting you. So we got to go win and that’s our plan is to go win a bunch of games and ultimately win a championship.”
On team continuity despite the team’s regression the past few seasons record-wise:
“Every year is different. You can’t always progress, so that’d be saying the Green Bay Packers regressed this year unless they win it all. Your record doesn’t always tell the whole story. It’s a constant change, moving pieces, injuries, bad play and good play, and trying to find a way to win games. The longer you keep that continuity and that consistency together, I think it’s proven to win out over time. You look at years’ past in Pittsburgh when they held that together with [Bill] Cowher for all those years. Over time it got done. You got to stick with it and that’s why I’m excited: to stick with it. Because there’s been plenty of 8-8 teams that have bounced back the next year and won it all. That’s obviously the ultimate goal and I think your normal offseason changes -- obviously we’ll have new players and we’ll lose some, hopefully retain a lot of them -- and find ways to improve from last year and go.”
On being outspoken in support of Norv and taking blame if it doesn’t work:
“No. What I take on my shoulders is the fact that we finished 8-8 this year. That was more about play than coaching by far. When you believe in something that doesn’t mean you’re always right. But if you believe in it you got to express it. I believe it is going to work and we are going to win and ultimately win a championship here. Obviously no one knows what’s going to happen. That’s obviously what I believe in and I’m going to do all I can to make that happen.”
Nick Hardwick
“It’s exciting for the continuity. We’ve got a great locker room here and the guys are I’m sure really excited. I’m super excited. Norv’s a heck of a coach. We have a great staff here, a really great staff. I’m just excited to continue to build on what we’ve learned, what we’re going to keep learning, keep moving forward and make a good push.”
Takeo Spikes
“I’m glad Norv is back. Anytime in life when you have stability, whether it’s family or dealing with business, that’s when you see progression start happening. That’s why I love the fact that Norv is back. Like I said earlier, what we have here is not broke. We may need to add a few pieces. But I’ve been places where we were broken and this is not even close to broke.”
Eric Weddle
“It’s great. We keep the guy we want here. We wanted him to lead us. Us as players, we got to go win it for him and make Dean right that he made the right decision. We’re excited to keep our head guys here and keep the continuity and energy up.”
“We know what we have, but we also know that it’s on us. So we have to improve not only for the coaches but for us as players. We’re here and we want to win. That’s what the bottom line is.”
Nate Kaeding
“Really excited. Having been here eight years now it’s a great working relationship with all of us players, Norv and AJ. Anytime you can have continuity and consistency within the organization, from a football player’s standpoint, that’s huge. Familiarity breeds confidence and consistency and those are huge parts of going out and playing and playing well. We’re obviously all really excited.”
Mike Scifres
“It’s exciting, it’s great news. When I got the text that it was happening I was actually on the golf course. There’s a lot of excitement just to know the continuity we’ve had in the locker room around here with him and the group of players we have; it’s big. I think people saw at the end of the season how much he meant to us as players, not just as a coach, but as a man and as a person. We love him, we love playing for him and couldn’t ask for a better person to be here still.”
Thanks to the Chargers' PR department, here is a sampling of quotes from a happy bunch of players:
Philip Rivers
On knowing Norv is his coach next season:
“It’s exciting. I think there’s still a great level of disappointment in the season with the way it ended and us not playing into January. It’s exciting to know from a continuity standpoint that our head coach is coming back. It wasn’t the season we wanted but I think there’s no doubt keeping that continuity gives us the best chance to win. Take a little time off and gear up again.”
On fans not knowing what goes on behind closed doors:
“It would be just like in any other place. It would be impossible to know unless you’re in here. Unless you’re doing it daily, with the game plans and the practices, training camps, to really know and appreciate. It’s a lot easier -- believe me, even me -- watching a Monday Night game at the house, where I would throw it than when I’m out there. That’s just the way it is. I think the fans here are passionate, they want to win and they want to win a championship. We do too. We’ve won a lot of games at home the last five years. We’ve won 29 games at home and they (the fans) have had a lot to do with that. Their support is huge. The one thing I know is you win and they’ll be supporting you. So we got to go win and that’s our plan is to go win a bunch of games and ultimately win a championship.”
On team continuity despite the team’s regression the past few seasons record-wise:
“Every year is different. You can’t always progress, so that’d be saying the Green Bay Packers regressed this year unless they win it all. Your record doesn’t always tell the whole story. It’s a constant change, moving pieces, injuries, bad play and good play, and trying to find a way to win games. The longer you keep that continuity and that consistency together, I think it’s proven to win out over time. You look at years’ past in Pittsburgh when they held that together with [Bill] Cowher for all those years. Over time it got done. You got to stick with it and that’s why I’m excited: to stick with it. Because there’s been plenty of 8-8 teams that have bounced back the next year and won it all. That’s obviously the ultimate goal and I think your normal offseason changes -- obviously we’ll have new players and we’ll lose some, hopefully retain a lot of them -- and find ways to improve from last year and go.”
On being outspoken in support of Norv and taking blame if it doesn’t work:
“No. What I take on my shoulders is the fact that we finished 8-8 this year. That was more about play than coaching by far. When you believe in something that doesn’t mean you’re always right. But if you believe in it you got to express it. I believe it is going to work and we are going to win and ultimately win a championship here. Obviously no one knows what’s going to happen. That’s obviously what I believe in and I’m going to do all I can to make that happen.”
Nick Hardwick
“It’s exciting for the continuity. We’ve got a great locker room here and the guys are I’m sure really excited. I’m super excited. Norv’s a heck of a coach. We have a great staff here, a really great staff. I’m just excited to continue to build on what we’ve learned, what we’re going to keep learning, keep moving forward and make a good push.”
Takeo Spikes
“I’m glad Norv is back. Anytime in life when you have stability, whether it’s family or dealing with business, that’s when you see progression start happening. That’s why I love the fact that Norv is back. Like I said earlier, what we have here is not broke. We may need to add a few pieces. But I’ve been places where we were broken and this is not even close to broke.”
Eric Weddle
“It’s great. We keep the guy we want here. We wanted him to lead us. Us as players, we got to go win it for him and make Dean right that he made the right decision. We’re excited to keep our head guys here and keep the continuity and energy up.”
“We know what we have, but we also know that it’s on us. So we have to improve not only for the coaches but for us as players. We’re here and we want to win. That’s what the bottom line is.”
Nate Kaeding
“Really excited. Having been here eight years now it’s a great working relationship with all of us players, Norv and AJ. Anytime you can have continuity and consistency within the organization, from a football player’s standpoint, that’s huge. Familiarity breeds confidence and consistency and those are huge parts of going out and playing and playing well. We’re obviously all really excited.”
Mike Scifres
“It’s exciting, it’s great news. When I got the text that it was happening I was actually on the golf course. There’s a lot of excitement just to know the continuity we’ve had in the locker room around here with him and the group of players we have; it’s big. I think people saw at the end of the season how much he meant to us as players, not just as a coach, but as a man and as a person. We love him, we love playing for him and couldn’t ask for a better person to be here still.”
Here is a look at the final division leaders in some key statistical categories:
Passing yards
Player: Philip Rivers, San Diego
Yards: 4,624
Comment: Rivers ended up having a solid season.
Rushing yards
Player: Willis McGahee, Denver
Yards: 1,199
Comment: McGahee was tremendous free-agent addition.
Receptions
Player: Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City
Yards: 1,159
Comment: Bowe will be a popular free agent if he gets there.
Tackles
Player: Derrick Johnson, Kansas City
Total: 131
Comment: Johnson earned his trip to Hawaii.
Sacks
Player: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Sacks: 12
Comment: Hali led Von Miller by a half sack.
Interceptions
Player: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Interceptions: 7
Comment: Weddle finished in a three-way tie for first place in the NFL in this category.
Passing yards
Player: Philip Rivers, San Diego
Yards: 4,624
Comment: Rivers ended up having a solid season.
Rushing yards
Player: Willis McGahee, Denver
Yards: 1,199
Comment: McGahee was tremendous free-agent addition.
Receptions
Player: Dwayne Bowe, Kansas City
Yards: 1,159
Comment: Bowe will be a popular free agent if he gets there.
Tackles
Player: Derrick Johnson, Kansas City
Total: 131
Comment: Johnson earned his trip to Hawaii.
Sacks
Player: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Sacks: 12
Comment: Hali led Von Miller by a half sack.
Interceptions
Player: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Interceptions: 7
Comment: Weddle finished in a three-way tie for first place in the NFL in this category.
» NFC Pro Bowl: East | West | North | South » AFC Pro Bowl: East | West | North | South
Perfect sense: Kansas City might be in last place, but linebackers Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali are top-level players. They both deserve this honor. They are building-block players on a young defense. Johnson is a tackling machine, and Hali, who has 12 sacks, is one of the better pass-rushers in the NFL. Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski made his first Pro Bowl in his 12-year career. It is past due and well deserved. Janikowski, who tied an NFL record with a 63-yard field goal at Denver in Week 1, is a great weapon. Oakland punter Shane Lechler is one of the game’s all-time best punters. He always deserves to go to the Pro Bowl. San Diego safety Eric Weddle is tied for the league lead with seven interceptions. He is earning his $40 million deal he signed this year. Denver linebacker Von Miller also deserves to be a Pro Bowler. He has 11.5 sacks, and he’s been a complete player. The No. 2 overall draft pick has made a bigger impact as a run-stopper and has been a catalyst to a much-improved defense. Kudos to Denver cornerback Champ Bailey, who is still playing at a high level. He is one of five players ever to be named to 11 Pro Bowls and is the only cornerback with 10 or more Pro Bowls. Can you say “first-ballot Hall of Famer”?
Made it on rep: A few AFC West stars made the Pro Bowl in injury-filled years. Oakland defensive tackle Richard Seymour was banged up and had some games in which he didn’t have much effect. Still, he did have some moments of greatness. He blocked two field goals in an Oakland overtime win at Kansas City on Saturday. San Diego tight end Antonio Gates dealt with a lot of injuries this season and didn't take over many games, but he had 59 catches and is still a premier player despite the injuries. Denver defensive end Elvis Dumervil, the first Denver defensive lineman to make the Pro Bowl in nine years, had a great season, but he didn’t enjoy a full season. He has 9.5 sacks, all in the past eight games. He was slowed by injuries early in the season. San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers had big yardage numbers (he became the third player in history to throw for more than 4,000 yards in four straight seasons). But he has thrown 19 interceptions and was out of sync for much of the season.
Get robbed: Denver running back Willis McGahee has been the lynchpin to the NFL’s best running offense. A big reason the Tim Tebow offense has worked is because McGahee –- one of the best free-agent signings in the NFL this year -- ran so well. He is enjoying resurgence at the age of 30. McGahee, who has 1,054 yards rushing and has averaged 4.8 yards per carry, is reportedly a first alternate. San Diego running back Ryan Mathews also had a strong season and a case to make the team. He is a second alternate. Kansas City receiver Dwayne Bowe had 75 catches and a nice season. Oakland safety Tyvon Branch and fullback Marcel Reece each had big years, and could have earned spots on the team. Perhaps each player will get his due next season. By the way, Tebow reportedly is a second alternate. Because quarterbacks often bow out, there is a strong chance Tebow will be eating pineapple in Hawaii next month.
Click here for the complete 2012 Pro Bowl roster.
Perfect sense: Kansas City might be in last place, but linebackers Derrick Johnson and Tamba Hali are top-level players. They both deserve this honor. They are building-block players on a young defense. Johnson is a tackling machine, and Hali, who has 12 sacks, is one of the better pass-rushers in the NFL. Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski made his first Pro Bowl in his 12-year career. It is past due and well deserved. Janikowski, who tied an NFL record with a 63-yard field goal at Denver in Week 1, is a great weapon. Oakland punter Shane Lechler is one of the game’s all-time best punters. He always deserves to go to the Pro Bowl. San Diego safety Eric Weddle is tied for the league lead with seven interceptions. He is earning his $40 million deal he signed this year. Denver linebacker Von Miller also deserves to be a Pro Bowler. He has 11.5 sacks, and he’s been a complete player. The No. 2 overall draft pick has made a bigger impact as a run-stopper and has been a catalyst to a much-improved defense. Kudos to Denver cornerback Champ Bailey, who is still playing at a high level. He is one of five players ever to be named to 11 Pro Bowls and is the only cornerback with 10 or more Pro Bowls. Can you say “first-ballot Hall of Famer”?
Made it on rep: A few AFC West stars made the Pro Bowl in injury-filled years. Oakland defensive tackle Richard Seymour was banged up and had some games in which he didn’t have much effect. Still, he did have some moments of greatness. He blocked two field goals in an Oakland overtime win at Kansas City on Saturday. San Diego tight end Antonio Gates dealt with a lot of injuries this season and didn't take over many games, but he had 59 catches and is still a premier player despite the injuries. Denver defensive end Elvis Dumervil, the first Denver defensive lineman to make the Pro Bowl in nine years, had a great season, but he didn’t enjoy a full season. He has 9.5 sacks, all in the past eight games. He was slowed by injuries early in the season. San Diego quarterback Philip Rivers had big yardage numbers (he became the third player in history to throw for more than 4,000 yards in four straight seasons). But he has thrown 19 interceptions and was out of sync for much of the season.
Get robbed: Denver running back Willis McGahee has been the lynchpin to the NFL’s best running offense. A big reason the Tim Tebow offense has worked is because McGahee –- one of the best free-agent signings in the NFL this year -- ran so well. He is enjoying resurgence at the age of 30. McGahee, who has 1,054 yards rushing and has averaged 4.8 yards per carry, is reportedly a first alternate. San Diego running back Ryan Mathews also had a strong season and a case to make the team. He is a second alternate. Kansas City receiver Dwayne Bowe had 75 catches and a nice season. Oakland safety Tyvon Branch and fullback Marcel Reece each had big years, and could have earned spots on the team. Perhaps each player will get his due next season. By the way, Tebow reportedly is a second alternate. Because quarterbacks often bow out, there is a strong chance Tebow will be eating pineapple in Hawaii next month.
Click here for the complete 2012 Pro Bowl roster.
AFC West Pro Bowl voting update
December, 21, 2011
12/21/11
5:30
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
The NFL has released the final results of the fan portion of the Pro Bowl voting process. The fan vote makes up a third of the process along with players and coaches votes.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who finished in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
Second place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Defensive end
Third place: Elvis Dumervil, Denver
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Fifth place: Tommy Kelly, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Fourth place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Fourth place: Matt Prater, Denver
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Fourth place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
The following is a look at the AFC West players who finished in the top five of the AFC fan vote. Voting ends next week and the team will be announced Dec. 27:
Quarterback
Third place: Tim Tebow, Denver
Running back
Fourth place: Darren McFadden, Oakland
Fifth place: Willis McGahee, Denver
Fullback
Second place: Jacob Hester, San Diego
Third place: Marcel Reece, Oakland
Wide Receiver
Fourth place: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Tight end
Fourth place: Antonio Gates, San Diego
Defensive end
Third place: Elvis Dumervil, Denver
Defensive tackle
Second place: Richard Seymour, Oakland
Fifth place: Tommy Kelly, Oakland
Outside linebacker
Second place: Von Miller, Denver
Fifth place: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Cornerback
Third place: Brandon Flowers, Kansas City
Fourth place: Champ Bailey, Denver
Strong safety
Third place: Brian Dawkins, Denver
Fourth place: Tyvon Branch, Oakland
Free safety
Second place: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Kicker
First place: Sebastian Janikowski, Oakland
Fourth place: Matt Prater, Denver
Punter
First place: Shane Lechler, Oakland
Second place: Britton Colquitt, Denver
Kick returner
Fourth place: Jacoby Ford, Oakland
Fifth place: Javier Arenas, Kansas City
Special Teamer
Fourth place: Rock Cartwright, Oakland
If a position wasn’t listed, no player in the division was in the top five.
By the numbers: Best in the West
December, 21, 2011
12/21/11
12:00
PM ET
By
Bill Williamson | ESPN.com
Here is a look at the division leaders in some key statistical categories after Week 15:
Passing yards
Player: Philip Rivers, San Diego
Yards: 4,015
Comment: Rivers is the third quarterback in history to register four straight 4,000-yard seasons.
Rushing yards
Player: Ryan Mathews, San Diego
Yards: 1,033
Comment: We very well may see Mathews in the Pro Bowl.
Receptions
Player: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Yards: 1,036
Comment: Jackson is quietly having a productive season.
Tackles
Player: Derrick Johnson, Kansas City
Total: 119
Comment: Johnson is having a dominant season
Sacks
Player: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Sacks: 12
Comment: Hali was a monster against Green Bay.
Interceptions
Player: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Interceptions: 7
Comment: Weddle is in a three-way tie for first place in the NFL in this category.
Passing yards
Player: Philip Rivers, San Diego
Yards: 4,015
Comment: Rivers is the third quarterback in history to register four straight 4,000-yard seasons.
Rushing yards
Player: Ryan Mathews, San Diego
Yards: 1,033
Comment: We very well may see Mathews in the Pro Bowl.
Receptions
Player: Vincent Jackson, San Diego
Yards: 1,036
Comment: Jackson is quietly having a productive season.
Tackles
Player: Derrick Johnson, Kansas City
Total: 119
Comment: Johnson is having a dominant season
Sacks
Player: Tamba Hali, Kansas City
Sacks: 12
Comment: Hali was a monster against Green Bay.
Interceptions
Player: Eric Weddle, San Diego
Interceptions: 7
Comment: Weddle is in a three-way tie for first place in the NFL in this category.
Weekend mail call:
Dan Carlton from Ojai, CA. wants to know if the Chargers will re-sign receiver Vincent Jackson.
Bill Williamson: It all depends on who is running the team. If general manager A.J. Smith is fired, it will be up to a new regime. If Smith sticks around, I think he still may not be convinced to give Jackson a long-term deal. I think the best bet is that Jackson will be given the franchise tag, by whoever is making the decisions in San Diego.
John Q. from Johnstown, Co. wants to know if Denver punter Britton Colquitt has a chance to make the Pro Bowl.
BW: Colquitt is having a fantastic season and he has the look of a punter who will be successful for several years. He had a strong leg and he is a good situational punter. But the truth is, as long as Shane Lechler is punting for the Raiders, no one else should make the Pro Bowl. Still, Colquitt is a real gamer.
Eli from Pasadena, Ca. wants to know if Chargers’ safety Eric Weddle should make the Pro Bowl.
BW: I think he has a shot to make it. He is a ball hawk and he has seven interceptions. I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Weddle made the Pro Bowl.
Dan Carlton from Ojai, CA. wants to know if the Chargers will re-sign receiver Vincent Jackson.
Bill Williamson: It all depends on who is running the team. If general manager A.J. Smith is fired, it will be up to a new regime. If Smith sticks around, I think he still may not be convinced to give Jackson a long-term deal. I think the best bet is that Jackson will be given the franchise tag, by whoever is making the decisions in San Diego.
John Q. from Johnstown, Co. wants to know if Denver punter Britton Colquitt has a chance to make the Pro Bowl.
BW: Colquitt is having a fantastic season and he has the look of a punter who will be successful for several years. He had a strong leg and he is a good situational punter. But the truth is, as long as Shane Lechler is punting for the Raiders, no one else should make the Pro Bowl. Still, Colquitt is a real gamer.
Eli from Pasadena, Ca. wants to know if Chargers’ safety Eric Weddle should make the Pro Bowl.
BW: I think he has a shot to make it. He is a ball hawk and he has seven interceptions. I wouldn’t be shocked at all if Weddle made the Pro Bowl.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Bill Williamson
Williamson joined ESPN.com in 2008 after four seasons covering the Denver Broncos for the Denver Post. He previously covered the Minnesota Vikings, Green Bay Packers and Seattle Seahawks.
