Chargers News: Danny Woodhead Looking Forward to New Season
When the San Diego Chargers lost Danny Woodhead last season to a brutal lower leg injury, the team was deflated in many ways. Woodhead was a leader on and off the field, and his loss was particularly tough for the Chargers. As is the nature of a football team, the next man must stand up.
Branden Oliver did just that, and his performance easily softened the loss of Woodhead. The Chargers invested a draft pick in a feature type back this off-season. Melvin Gordon should be the #1 running back in time, but the rookie must first improve his pass catching abilities and his pass protection abilities.
Ryan Mathews is long gone. The brittle running back is now property of the Philadelphia Eagles. Gordon should be able to fill the shoes of Mathews, but Woodhead and Oliver should play vital roles in the offense.
The dynamic trio of Gordon, Woodhead and Oliver should be more than enough to provide an ample running game for the Chargers. The team upgraded their offensive line this off-season and big things are truly expected from this mammoth new offensive front. Orlando Franklin, D.J. Fluker, King Dunlap, Chris Watt and Joe Barksdale should provide many holes for the running game to exploit.
In early June at OTA’s Woodhead was said to be in great shape and running at 100 percent. The coaching staff remarked that his speed was very impressive and he already looks in game shape. Woodhead looks to build on the great 2013 season he had with the Chargers. That season Woodhead had 76 catches for 605 yards and six touchdowns. He also ran for 429 yards on 106 attempts and two touchdowns. He was rewarded with a two-year contract before the 2014 season.
The 5 foot 9 inch running back is well-loved by Chargers fans. He is the consummate team player and will surely work well with rookie running back Melvin Gordon. Often players who enter the league need a mentor to guide them in the way of NFL life. Woodhead will lead by example and provide guidance for Gordon. The Chargers will only benefit with Gordon improving his game and you can be sure Danny Woodhead will be there every step of the way.
The San Diego Chargers season is very important to the city of San Diego. The team has more pressure now to perform at a high level as the team looks to be headed out of town. Will a playoff run and a Super Bowl victory save this franchise in the city of San Diego? Hopefully the issue is resolved soon as the distraction of all this uncertainty can surely not be a good thing for the team.
James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.
