As we near the start of training camp on July 30, we'll preview each position for the San Diego Chargers. We end with a look at the safeties.
The Roster
Dwight Lowery –Without Eric Weddle for the first time in a decade, the Chargers signed the veteran safety for his leadership and ball hawking ability. As a result, he knows that he will be under a microscope during his first Chargers camp. The 5-11, 212-pounder has 16 interceptions over his career, including four last year with the Indianapolis Colts.
Jahleel Addae – "The Hitman" aims to lock a starting role for a second straight season. An
intimidating presence in the secondary, Addae has steadily ascended into a passionate leader on defense. One major point of emphasis this offseason has been to make more plays on the ball, so pay close attention when he drops into coverage.
Adrian Phillips – Phillips looks to build off a strong offseason program by carving out a regular role in the safety rotation during training camp. Another former undrafted free agent, he's split the past two seasons bouncing back and forth between the active roster and practice squad.
Dexter McCoil – You won't be able to miss McCoil if you come out to Chargers Park as there aren't many 6-4, 240-pound safeties in the league. The former Toledo standout has plied his trade the past couple seasons in the CFL, and was named the Most Outstanding Defensive Player for 2015 Grey Cup Champion Edmonton Eskimos.
Darrell Stuckey –Most know him for his special teams prowess, but don't sleep on Stuckey's ability at safety. The seven-year veteran is a trusted voice in the locker room and is regarded as one of the most inspirational Chargers.
Adrian McDonald –The Houston product was a 2015 Jim Thorpe Award Semifinalist, which is given to the nation's top defensive back. He ranks first in school history with 17 career interceptions, and ranked second on the team in 2015 with 92 tackles.
Keep an Eye On…
Ricky Henne: Adrian Phillips capped a strong offseason program with a big showing at mini camp, recording multiple interceptions including a pick-six. As noted above, he's split his first two seasons bouncing between the 53-man roster and practice squad. A solid showing during training camp might not only cement his spot on the active roster, but as part of the regular rotation.
Hayley Elwood: Along with seeing how Dwight Lowery fits in alongside Jahleel Addae, I'm looking forward to seeing Dexter McCoil pick up where he left off in June. McCoil has had a pretty standout offseason so far – even earning praise from Head Coach Mike McCoy. While he initially joined the team as an inside linebacker, he's now listed as a safety so it will be interesting to see his development in the secondary during camp.
