‘Connected’ Chargers defense can rest for now after besting Broncos
LA TimesAfter halftime Monday, the Chargers allowed Denver only 72 total yards of offense and five first downs during their overtime win. Against the Broncos, the two longest plays yielded both involved cornerback J.C. Jackson, the Chargers’ biggest offseason free-agent addition who eventually was benched Monday. We’re going to stay with him, keep coaching him and see if we can get him comfortable.” Asked Monday if the Pro Bowl corner’s issues have been mental errors, Staley answered, “I think that’s fair to say.” The Chargers signed Jackson in March to a five-year deal that guarantees him $40 million and is worth up to $82.5 million. Last week, Jackson talked about his prowess as a press corner, calling it “my game” and adding, “I need to stick to my game.” Staley on Monday reiterated that the Chargers aren’t asking Jackson to do anything different than what he did during his first four seasons in the NFL with New England. We need to make sure that we continue to work with him so that he’s focused, consistent and being the player that we know he can be.” Hopkins out 2-4 weeks The Chargers received encouraging news on Dustin Hopkins, with Staley announcing that the kicker has only a strained hamstring and that “his return to play is two to four weeks.” Hopkins was injured early in the second quarter against Denver but still booted four field goals, including the game-winner in overtime.