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| | Tuesday, August 1 Chargers: Life of Riley to get better | |||||||||||||||
| By Mark Cannizzaro Special to ESPN.com The San Diego Chargers, much like the Raiders, believe they can win the AFC West. After all, they defeated last year's division winner, Seattle, twice. "It would be wrong for any of us to say we can't win this division," second-year coach Mike Riley said. "We can compete with any team in this division."
Ryan Leaf. After two years of wasted time in his bust of an NFL career, the second overall pick in the 1998 draft must answer some questions. For starters, is he ready to challenge Jim Harbaugh for the No. 1 spot and live up to his potential? Key position battle This has to be quarterback, where the Chargers need Leaf to at least push Harbaugh, who had a mediocre 70.6 passer rating last year in throwing more interceptions (14) than touchdowns (10). Biggest adjustment The Chargers will have to get used to life without general manager Bobby Beathard, who retired in the offseason after 10 years running the team. Billy Devaney takes control of the draft and free agency as director of player personnel. Rookie report With no No. 1 pick, the coaches hope second-rounder Rogers Beckett, a free safety from Marshall, will become a starter this year. Third-rounder Damion McIntosh, a tackle from Kansas State, has a chance to push for a starting job. Fourth-rounder Trevor Gaylor, a receiver out of Miami (Ohio), should be the No. 3 wideout right away.
| ALSO SEE Broncos: Back in the saddle Chiefs: An offseason to forget Raiders: Will they be kicking themselves? Seahawks: Repeat a tough encore AUDIO/VIDEO  Coach Mike Riley says it may be running back-by-committee in San Diego.wav: 818 k RealAudio: 14.4 | 28.8 | 56.6 Coach Riley breaks down the Chargers' QB situation.wav: 1202 k RealAudio: 14.4 | 28.8 | 56.6 | |||||||||||||||
