4. Los Angeles Chargers
While the offensive line injuries are the bigger headline, the banged-up Los Angeles Chargers could use some more help at linebacker. The defense itself is holding up reasonably well against the run, ranking 17th in EPA/rush allowed, but the linebackers are not holding up their end of the bargain. Veteran Troy Dye is an unremarkable talent, while third-year pro Daiyan Henley is in the midst of the worst season of his career. His size issues are showing up as he ranks 68th out of 84 eligible linebackers in PFF grade.
Kyzir White may not get the Chargers the AFC West crown, but he can help this team stay competitive in December and January. While he hasn’t done much this year, he had over 130 tackles with the Arizona Cardinals in 2024 and can add a much-needed steadying presence to the heart of this defense. With the offensive line banged up and quarterback Justin Herbert battling a hand injury, the defense will need to carry more weight if this team wants to go on a deep playoff run.
