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They're attempting to make significant scheme changes on both sides of the ball. Offensively, the Chargers are expected to move to a system that will call on Tyrod Taylor to be a part of the run game. Defensively, they're moving away from their high-percentage Cover-3 (a three-deep zone with four underneath defenders) scheme to one that is less predictable and more diverse. A month ago, this looked like a defense that could make a big leap, but the Chargers lost All-Pro safety Derwin James to a knee injury. Justin Herbert taking over for Taylor at some point before Thanksgiving seems likely.

Losing Derwin James hurts the defense, but it will still be a top unit. Tyrod Taylor will just have to manage the game and sprinkle in some big plays in the passing game to get this team to the playoffs.

WR Mike Williams' shoulder injury was mere precursor to season-ending loss of S Derwin James. At least Bolts fans knew to expect this.

What type of production will the Chargers get from the quarterback position?

Alden Gonzalez: Philip Rivers has of course anchored that spot for the past 14 years. Now, someone new will be taking snaps from under center, presenting a major variable for a team that has its sights set on contention. Barring a surprise, Rivers' replacement will initially be Tyrod Taylor, who hasn't started an NFL game since Week 3 of the 2018 season. Is he still capable of leading a playoff team?

Sometimes, sports are just plain unfair. This should have been the year Derwin James played a full season and reminded the world that he's the most talented safety in football. Instead, a knee injury ends his season before it begins. If he's back on the field for Week 1 next September, he'll return having missed 27 of his last 32 games due to lower-body maladies. Even without James, the Bolts' defense has the talent to be a strong unit. But coordinator Gus Bradley's group had the chance to be special with James doing his thing on the back end. It ain't right.