REPORT DATES: July 22nd (rookies), July 25th (veterans)
SITE: Chargers Park, San Diego, CA
CAMP OBJECTIVES: Though back-to-back non-playoff finishes have created an atmosphere of heightened urgency in what could be a make-or-break season for head coach Norv Turner, the Chargers won't be going into training camp with a whole lot of uncertainty on the depth chart. The team does have to replace two important offensive pieces in playmaking wide receiver Vincent Jackson and versatile running back Mike Tolbert, both of whom left in free agency, and will be relying on a number of veteran newcomers to mesh quickly and help fill those voids. Ex-Saint Robert Meachem will attempt to step into Jackson's shoes as the new No. 1 receiver, with fellow additions Eddie Royal and Roscoe Parrish also entering the wideout mix, while former 1,000-yard rusher Ronnie Brown and Kansas City discard Jackie Battle are among those aiming to be the main understudy to feature back Ryan Mathews. One newcomer to watch on defense will be outside linebacker Melvin Ingram, San Diego's first-round pick in April's draft who'll be asked to make an immediate impact as a pass-rushing specialist and help fortify a problem area from a year ago. There's a possible opening at safety as well, with offseason pickup Atari Bigby and rookie Brandon Taylor (3rd Round, LSU) the top candidates.
PRESEASON SCHEDULE (All Times Eastern):
Aug. 9 - vs. Green Bay, 8 p.m. Aug. 18 - vs. Dallas, 9 p.m. Aug. 24 - at Minnesota, 8 p.m. Aug. 30 - at San Francisco, 10:05 p.m.
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