Oakland Raiders Vs. The AFC West: Cornerbacks

Oct 5, 2014; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers cornerback Brandon Flowers (26) intercepts a pass intended for New York Jets wide receiver Greg Salas (17) in the second quarter of the game at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

San Diego Chargers

The Chargers, like the Raiders, are trying to bank a little bit on potential, rather than on production. Unlike the Raiders though, the Chargers do have one proven performer manning one of the cornerback slots – Brandon Flowers.

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With three picks, ten passes defensed, and 48 tackles last year, Flowers had a solid, if unspectacular season. He also missed two games with injury. Across from him, the Chargers drafted Jason Verrett in the first round in 2014 and in his rookie campaign, had just one interception, four passes defensed, and 18 tackles – not exactly the sort of production one would hope for from their first round pick. Of course, Verrett also spent ten games on the disabled list last season, which impacted his productivity of course.

San Diego has the potential to have two elite corners, as well as the potential to have the best cornerback tandem in the AFC West. Perhaps even one of the best in the entire league. Unfortunately for them, they will still have to prove it as potential is nice, but doesn’t get you anywhere.

If the Chargers’ corners can stay healthy, look for them to be one of the nastier – and more effective – tandems in the league.

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