Los Angeles Chargers: 5 burning questions in 2018

Los Angeles Chargers: 5 burning questions for 2018

CLEVELAND, OH - DECEMBER 24: A Cleveland Browns helmet site on the sideline during the second quarter of the National Football League game between the San Diego Chargers and Cleveland Browns on December 24, 2016, at FirstEnergy Stadium in Cleveland, OH. Cleveland defeated San Diego 20-17 to win their first game of the season. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Quarterback Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers calls signals in an NFL football game against the New York Jets on December 24, 2017 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Chargers won 14-7. (Photo by Paul Bereswill/Getty Images) /

3. Will Philip Rivers fall off?

For the last decade and a half Philip Rivers has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in the league. Since the 2008 season, Rivers has only once failed to exceed 4,000 passing yards. If that isn’t consistent, I am not sure what is. But, at the age of 36, it has to be expected that his play will fall off.

Last season Rivers threw for 4,515 yards with 28 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. For reference, Tom Brady was named the MVP with 4,577 yards, 32 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Those numbers aren’t too far apart. For Rivers to still be playing at this level at 36 years old is impressive, but one has to start thinking that the run could be coming to an end soon for Rivers.

Perhaps because of how well he has played, Rivers has no intention of retiring. However, the team should begin looking at finding his replacement at some point. Beyond this point, anything can happen and the Chargers need to be ready for the worst. They did not draft a quarterback this year, showing faith in Rivers’ ability to stay healthy, could that come back to haunt them?

If Rivers continues to play at an elite level, the Chargers have a legitimate shot at winning the AFC West. They have one of the best defenses in the league, let alone the division. Also, despite Hunter Henry’s unfortunate season-ending ACL tear, the offense still has a lot of weapons. Keenan Allen and Mike Williams both seem to always be battling injuries, but when healthy, they could form a formidable tandem in Los Angeles. It all simply hinges on Rivers still being able to sling the rock.

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