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This year’s Chargers defense will be more reliant on the progression and growth of young playmakers. That includes the 2025 rookie class, as well as guys who are in their second or third seasons with the expectation of making a jump this year.
Let’s check out which defenders to keep a close eye on at this year’s training camp.
DL: Jamaree Caldwell
The Chargers signed a few journeymen to the defensive line room this offseason, but Caldwell was the biggest acquisition. The third-round draft pick has the upside to make an immediate impact, and this defense may need him to do just that. Training camp will be the first look at Caldwell to see how he will shape up against the NFL’s best. If he can hold his own against this offensive line, it will bode well for his chances of seeing extended playing time in 2025.
LB: Junior Colson
All eyes will be on the sophomore Colson at training camp. He’s one of the most intriguing players to watch on this year’s roster. Colson didn’t play much in his first season, so all the pressure is on him to perform in Year 2. With a stellar training camp, he could earn the starting linebacker job next to Daiyan Henley. He will have to fend off veteran Denzel Perryman, who, although has shown signs of decline, still has plenty of experience in this league.
CB: Ja’Sir Taylor
For a former sixth-rounder, Taylor has built himself a successful career. He’s spent three years with the Chargers, which has included 11 starts and 1,742 total snaps across defense and special teams. Heading into Year 4, though, his future in Los Angeles is up in the air. Taylor needs to have a solid training camp to secure his spot on this year’s 53-man roster. Otherwise, he could be on the outside looking in, and the Chargers could turn to a younger option to fill out the cornerback room.
S: RJ Mickens
Another rookie cracks this list, and Mickens is an intriguing one. You already know what you’re getting with the two starters, Derwin James and Alohi Gilman. There is some room for change in the reserve roles, though, as a guy like Mickens could sneak his way onto the 53-man roster. He will primarily compete with veteran Tony Jefferson to round out the safety room. The sixth-rounder had plenty of success at Clemson and projects best as a physical box safety in the NFL. As is typically the case with these late-round picks, Mickens will have to prove that he can provide value on special teams.
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