Q: How will Mike Williams' return impact the WR rotation? – Matthew Padilla
A: This was the most popular question in the mailbag this week. First off, let me stress that it is still not known exactly when he'll make his NFL debut, though Head Coach Anthony Lynn did say last week that the first round pick is getting close. It's important to note that Williams has still not been a full participant in practice yet as he works his way back from his back injury. However, once he is given the green light, the Clemson product gives the Chargers another big-bodied weapon to catch contested balls. I think that's where he will really help this offense. Keenan Allen has returned to form as the team's top option, while Tyrell Williams and Travis Benjamin have proven to be big play weapons. But having a physical presence to fight for those 50-50 jump balls will add another dynamic edge to the passing attack. However, it's impossible to know exactly how it will impact the wide receiver rotation until we see it in action. I am confident though that the Bolts will find a way to get everyone enough snaps.
Q: What kind of impact do you think John Pagano will have now that he's with the Raiders? – Wes Chadwick
A: I think Pags will have a fairly significant impact this week having spent his previous 15 years with the Chargers. He joined the Raiders this offseason as the Assistant Head Coach – Defense, and he'll be called this week to give the lowdown on the Bolts. Not only does he have an intimate knowledge of the defensive personnel, but Pagano knows the team's offense like the back of his hand. Pagano was with Rivers for every year of his career prior to 2017, and faced off against Offensive Coordinator Ken Whisenhunt every day in practice twice over the previous four seasons. Oakland Head Coach Jack Del Rio was asked about the role Pagano will have this week, and didn't hide the fact that they are using him as a resource:
"We're excited to have John. He's an outstanding coach, and had 15 good years there with that organization. He certainly has a great understanding of the personnel and things, so obviously there are a lot of people trying to pick his brain. The bottom line is we're happy to have him."
Q: What is up with Jeremiah Attaochu? – Jose Alonso
A: Quite a few have asked about the fourth-year pass rusher, who has yet to appear in a game this season. Attaochu missed the first couple weeks with a hamstring injury, replaced by Chris McCain in the rotation. McCain simply took advantage of the opportunity, registering a sack in three straight games. Head Coach Anthony Lynn noted last week that it is hard to take McCain off the field when he is playing that way, and has simply replaced Attaochu as the next man up after Melvin Ingram at the LEO position at this time.
