San Diego Chargers sign Center J.D. Walton

With center J.D. Walton signed and tackle Tyreek Burwell promoted, Chargers back to 53-man roster.

— Michael Gehlken (@UTgehlken) September 30, 2015

This is big news!

Normally, when the San Diego Chargers sign an offensive lineman off the street, you're hoping that the guy never makes it into the game. It's usually some career backup or a rookie that's never really played before. J.D. Walton is neither of those things.

In fact, J.D. Walton was Mike McCoy's starting center for two seasons with the Denver Broncos (both the Tim Tebow year and the Peyton Manning year). He spent last season starting all 16 games at center for Eli Manning and the New York Giants. This is a guy that, if all things were fair, might have a shot at stealing the Chargers' starting Center spot.

For now, he'll be a backup for Trevor Robinson, while Chris Watt recovers from a groin injury. Still, it's a bit surprising that Walton (who was in Training Camp with the Miami Dolphins) was available at all.