Los Angeles Chargers: Is Cardale Jones an Actual Rivers Heir?
By Erik Lambert
Everybody felt the same way when the Los Angeles Chargers traded for Cardale Jones from Buffalo. He’s ideal backup material.
After all their depth behind Philip Rivers wasn’t that great with veteran Kellen Clemens and former UDFA Mike Bercovici as their only options. Jones brings some talent and backup experience into the fray and at least grants them some flexibility. However, it might not just be about that. It’s no secret that Rivers turns 36-years old this season. At some point the Chargers know they have to start thinking about a succession plan.
Still, there’s no way that Jones could factor into that. Now way, right? Well don’t look now but it’s beginning to seem like there’s real possibility there. According to ESPN, GM Tom Telesco and the Chargers front office have been hot on the trail of Jones since the draft, signaling a genuine appreciation for his talent.
"Telesco said the Chargers had been discussing a potential trade for Jones with the Bills since the draft, but finally executed the deal this week.“Obviously we’re looking for competition at that spot,” Telesco said. “And with Cardale, he’s a quarterback with some developmental traits that are hard to find.Our scouts had really high grades on him when he came out in the draft. And then the fact that Anthony had him in Buffalo for a year — that way he knew him — so it was a good blend for us and a good combination for that. Since Brad Sorensen, we haven’t had a young quarterback in our system that we could work with, so he’s going to be one of those guys.”"
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The talent and winning history are still there
Most people are done with the Jones debate. That’s fair. The former 4th round pick has next virtually nothing in the NFL except occupy a roster spot. Why should people buy the idea that he may have a shot at assuming the mantle once Rivers is done? Namely it has to do with two factors: his sheer talent and his accomplishments in college.
Jones is a physical specimen with immense size, a strong arm and deceptive athleticism. Then there’s the inescapable fact that he has performed at a high level before. Jones was a big factor in helping Ohio State win the national championship a few years ago. Some could argue he just wasn’t ready to go pro yet. It’s taking time for him to adjust.
This is going to be something debated by fans and media for weeks and months to come. Smart money says this move doesn’t produce anything beyond help at backup. Then again, crazy things happen in this league.