NFL Training Camp 2025: Reasons for Chargers to Worry After Kickoff
The Los Angeles Chargers, who boasted a strong defense in the 2024 season, are expected to face some regression in the upcoming 2025 campaign. Despite ranking No. 2 in the league and being the No. 1 scoring defense last year, the team is grappling with significant changes, including the addition of six new starters and a younger, more cost-effective defense [1].
One of the key challenges for the Chargers is the loss of edge rusher Joey Bosa, with limited replacements putting more pressure on other defenders like Khalil Mack [3]. The cornerback group, which was not highly rated last season, will also need to step up to compensate for the loss.
Compared to other teams, the Chargers are projected to fall out of the top defensive ranks, with a likely ranking around the 20th in scoring defense. Teams such as the Denver Broncos, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles are predicted to have stronger defensive units in 2025 [3][4].
Despite this, the Chargers narrowly missed being ranked among the NFL’s top 10 defenses in 2025, indicating they are still a solid but not elite defensive team this season [4].
The Chargers' defense is led by key players such as Derwin James, who is considered the standard for Charger football by cornerback Donte Jackson [2]. Undrafted cornerback Nikko Reed had a good performance in the preseason game and could provide an added boost to the defense if he makes the team [5].
The team's offense, however, may not be as reliable in winning shootouts, which could put more pressure on the defense [6].
In the midst of these challenges, there is still optimism within the Chargers' defense. Defender Kyle Kennard and Jamaree Caldwell, rookies on the team, are expected to help bolster the front seven [7]. Linebacker Daiyan Henley is also expected to build on his career year from last season.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, the Chargers' defense is gearing up for a promising but challenging season under the guidance of the Harbaugh-Minter coaching duo.
The Chargers, finding themselves in a predicament with the departure of edge rusher Joey Bosa, are preparing to present a revised defensive draft, leaning more on players like Khalil Mack and the untested Nikko Reed, who showed promise in the preseason. The new-look defense, with six new starters and a focus on the American-football scene of the NFL, is expected to continue their tradition of excellence in the 2025 season, despite predictions of a slight drop in ranking compared to their top-tier performance in NFL football's 2024 season.
