It’s no secret that the San Diego Chargers needed linebacker help, with a revolving door at the position last season due to numerous injuries and lack of production. So it clearly makes sense that they would sign one of the most productive linebackers in the league in Takeo Spikes.
Despite being 34 years old, Spikes has defied Father Time, and remained a top ten inside linebacker over the last three seasons. Statistically, he’s coming off one of the better seasons of his career last year, where he put up 82 solo tackles and 109 total tackles. Although these numbers should regress back to his norms of around 60 solo and 80 total tackles, Spikes should still remain a dominant linebacker.
Spikes is currently set to step right into the starting lineup and play alongside rookie Jonas Mouton. However, speculation is that the Chargers are still interested in bringing Kevin Burnett back to start alongside Spikes, which can only help create space for Spikes to make plays and create havoc for opposing offenses.
For a team on the brink of being a legitimate Super Bowl contender, Spikes should help solidify the Chargers defense. He also brings a solid veteran presence and additional leadership that is always welcome on teams like the Chargers. This should end up as a win-win signing for both sides, as it fills a glaring need for San Diego, and offers Spikes the opportunity to play for a contender.
Fantasy Spin:
Once again, I’ll defer to the PFF IDP projections for Spikes, and say that 70 solo tackles, 90 solo tackles, and a sack is what Spikes is capable of doing as a Charger.
Questions and comments are always welcome via Twitter – @Eric_Yeomans
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