San Diego Chargers Daily Links: February 24, 2012

Expect kicking competition for Chargers - Bill Williamson
Kaeding suffered a torn ACL in Week 1. Novak was signed and performed well for the rest of the season. Because of Kaeding’s success prior to the 2011 season and Novak’s performance last season, I think both players deserve the chance to win the job.

Talking with Chargers GM A.J. Smith - Bill Williamson
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."

AFC West combine primer - Bill Williamson
Will the Chargers get their pass-rusher? The Chargers took defensive end Corey Liuget at No. 18 last year and bypassed several pass-rushers in a deep class. This year’s class is not nearly as deep, but the Chargers still need a pass-rusher. Once again, San Diego has the No. 18 pick.

Tight ends in demand in current NFL - Christopher Smith
No team possessed a pair of pass-catching tight ends that matched New England’s in 2011, but a good portion of the league is using two downfield threats at the position. Top-notch athletes with good hands and large bodies are in demand.

Draft needs undecided as Combine starts - Christopher Smith
Impending free agency will give clarity to San Diego’s draft needs. While the team evaluates prospects at the Combine, General Manager A.J. Smith continues to await decisions from some of the Chargers’ own free agents, but wants players like Nick Hardwick and Vincent Jackson back in the fold.

McGuire is Bolts' main man in Indianapolis - Kevin Acee
But the busiest member of the Chargers football brain trust here this week for the NFL Combine is Vice President Ed McGuire. And he won’t evaluate a single player.

As always, Smith willing to move in draft - Kevin Acee
And with the available talent at specific positions, the Chargers are much more likely to move down than up in this year’s first round.