Returning stars

QB Justin Herbert, RB Austin Ekeler, WR Keenan Allen, WR Mike Williams, DE Joey Bosa

Key veteran adds

TE Gerald Everett, OLB Khalil Mack, OLB Kyle Van Noy, CB JC Jackson, CB Bryce Callahan

Key veteran losses

RB Justin Jackson, TE Jared Cook, OT Bryan Bulaga, DT Linval Joseph

Key draft picks

G/C Zion Johnson (17)

Analysis

Add an elite player like DE/OLB Khalil Mack to an already respectable defense and you’re off to a great offseason. The Chargers are serious about contending. QB Justin Herbert has developed into a top throwing talent. With WR Allen and WR Williams to throw to, and RB Ekeler coming out of the backfield, there are no excuses in Los Angeles. Sure, the division is tough but for all the talent on the Broncos, Chiefs, and Raiders, the Chargers might have the most balanced attack.

Prediction: 2nd in division. There’s so much talent on this team that the Chargers will rake in the wins. Enough for a wildcard entry into the playoffs? During the season Herbert will burnish his reputation as a top-5 QB but his team lacks the magic to overcome a Broncos team in a special year.