Los Angeles Chargers free agency 2019: top 5 targets

5. Tyrann Mathieu, DB Houston Texans

The Arizona Cardinals made a big decision last offseason when they decided to cut Tyrann Mathieu. Oddly, the star defensive back didn’t garner a ton of interest in free agency, which led him to sign a “prove it deal”.

Mathieu signed a one-year deal with the Houston Texans for a price of $7 million. He walked into the 2018 season with a chip on his shoulder to prove he is healthy and capable of playing at an All Pro level again.

Versatility is a big part of the Chargers secondary. The team played James, King and Phillips in many positions ranging from safety, cornerback and linebacker. This is why Mathieu should be pursued by the Chargers.

Mathieu’s true position is safety, but he can play both as a cornerback and a nickel corner. But with Phillips set to become a free agent, Mathieu would slot into the hole that may be left by Phillips with ease.

Linebacker may be too far-fetched when it comes to Mathieu, but his ability to move around in the secondary carries a lot of value. In 2018, he picked off two passes, racked up 89 combined tackles and sacked the quarterback three times.

Mathieu has indicated that he would like to re-sign with the Texans and the feeling appears to be mutual on the Texans end. However, the Chargers should jump on him and add him to that already dynamic, dominant defense.