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Ex-San Diego Charger Shawne Merriman overdosed, sources say - Andrew Blankstein
"I retire today not because I don't feel I can go out there and still play the game at a very high level. I am retiring because I want to retire on my own terms and leave while I know I can still physically play the game. I am stepping back to pursue other great opportunities that have been afforded me," he wrote.
Secret Superstar: Kendall Reyes - Kevin Grauel
Reyes made the transition from defensive tackle in college to 5-technique defensive end in the NFL, and progressed very well over the course of the season. His run defense still has a way to go, but it did improve as the season went on. His run defense grade was -4.5 over the first half of the season, as opposed to +2.0 in the second half.
2013 PFF Staff Dynasty Rookie Mock Draft - Joey Cartolano
Allen slipped to the third round in the NFL draft because of a knee injury that could linger into the season, but I think he is the second most talented receiver in the class and the one that will have the most immediate impact once he returns to the field. San Diego was a good landing spot for Allen. The only established receiver is Danario Alexander, who is often hurt and is on a one-year franchise tender. Allen could be seeing 70-target seasons very quickly.
Ranking the AFC West O-linemen - Bill Williamson
8. Nick Hardwick, San Diego: The venerable center is the anchor of a rebuilding line.
Change ahead on the defensive line - Bill Williamson
Kansas City and San Diego, which both employ three-man defensive fronts, are the thinnest defensive lines in the division. As far as depth beyond the starters go. Each group has some nice players, but there could be problems if there are injuries.
Ex-blocker doubts D.J. Fluker at right tackle - Tom Krasovic (paywall)
At Chargers Park on May 13, I saw Fluker discover how sneaky and fast NFL edge rushers can be. His potential at guard is intriguing, as noted predraft. My view remains that Fluker, 22, needs to be given a chance to play right tackle, where he started for three years at Alabama. He reputedly is a hard worker, and he's learning from a coach, Joe D'Alessandris, who's in his fourth decade of teaching blockers.