On a new episode of Chargers Weekly presented by YouTube TV, Matt "Money" Smith and Chris Hayre discuss the latest NFL news – from coaching hires to Championship Weekend – and give out a few team awards after the Bolts' 2021 season.
The guys also discuss the number of young, elite quarterbacks in the AFC, and players to keep an eye on during this weekend's NFLPA Collegiate Bowl. Download and subscribe to the Chargers Podcast Network wherever you listen to podcasts.
Money's 2021 team MVP outside of Justin Herbert
"It's tough. Look, like to me, that's a really tough one. I think it's hard not to look at Austin Ekeler. When you score that many touchdowns, when you can do it in that many different ways: rushing [and] receiving. He's an exceptional pass protector. He's in the conversation.
"And I think Derwin [James Jr.'s] in the conversation as well, obviously. Not just his performance, but in his penchant for making big plays when you need them the most. I think those two come to mind, but believe it or not, I'm going to go Rashawn Slater.
"I don't think people recognize how much different an offense is when you have someone on the left side of the offensive line that you don't have to worry about. You don't have to think about what's happening on that side. … I just think he had that exceptional of a year and was that important to what Joe Lombardi and Brandon Staley wanted to see happen on that side of the ball."
Listen to the entire episode to hear Money's most improved player, favorite Justin Herbert play and biggest offseason need.
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