TE -- Randy McMichael vs. Dante Rosario (free agent, Broncos) vs. Kory Sperry. McMichael, a 10-year vet, played in all 16 games with 14 starts for the Chargers last season. He has the edge because of his impressive blocking skills, but he only had 30 receptions for 271yards and no TDs in 2011. Rosario, a six-year vet, was solid as a
receiver through OTAs and minicamp. Sperry, a three-year vet, was largely used as a blocker in 2011. Rosario and Sperry need to demonstrate they have developed into a well-rounded tight ends if they are to win a roster spot over McMichael.
RB -- Curtis Brinkley vs. Jackie Battle. Brinkley came to the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2009 but was shot in the chest after completing offseason workouts. With the bullet still lodged near his heart, Brinkley made the practice squad in 2010 and was on the active roster for three games. In 2011, Brinkley was active for 10 games and made one start. He carried the ball 30 times for 101 yards and one TD. Battle (free agent, Chiefs), a five-year vet, has 190 career carries for 715 yards and 4 TDs. Battle is a special teams standout and that may give him an edge over Brinkley.
WR – Richard Goodman vs. Micheal Spurlock (free agent, Buccaneers) vs.
Roscoe Parrish (free agent, Bills). Goodman, a two-year vet, was the Chargers' KR last year and finished the season with a 105-yard return for a TD against the Raiders. Goodman did not catch a pass in 2011 but was one of the most targeted receivers through OTAs and minicamp. Spurlock and Parrish have both worked as kick-returners and have more experience as receivers. Spurlock, a six-year vet, has 294 receiving yards and two TDs. Parrish, a seven-year vet, has 1,502 receiving yards and seven TDs. Goodman is considered the fastest player on the roster and should have the edge if he can take advantage of
opportunities as a receiver.
Follow Chargers reporter Dan McLellan on Twitter @CBSSportsNFLSD and
@SanDiegoSports.
No ad available