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Offseason in three or fewer words: Fix the defense

It was apparent throughout the 2021 season that the Chargers' offense was not the problem. However, the defense finished last in third-down conversions allowed (49.5%), was tied for 29th in points allowed (27.0) and 26th in expected points added (minus-80.49). It allowed 138.9 yards per game on the ground, third worst in the league and the most it has allowed since 2003. Toward the end of the season the Chargers were better -- in three prime-time games they held opponents to just 63 rushing yards per game -- but something needs to be done this offseason in order for this team to make the playoffs in 2022. -- Shelley Smith

The Chargers deserve credit for hitting huge on Justin Herbert and quickly building up one of the league's more dangerous attacks. The path to the playoffs rests on the team's ability to fix a broken defense. Los Angeles was a bottom-five group in points and third-down conversions allowed while surrendering the most rushing yards per game (138.9) by a Chargers team in more than 30 years. Few teams in the league have more current available projected cap space than the Bolts -- spending on the right players could spark a leap to true contender status.

In Justin Herbert, they have a great piece to build around. The run defense has to be a priority in terms of team building this offseason.

How close are they? They were probably one defensive stop from reaching the playoffs. How close are they? They beat five eventual playoff teams in 2021, including the AFC finalist Bengals and Chiefs.

The Chargers have their elite young quarterback in Justin Herbert and just watched their local rival win a Super Bowl. What does this mean? Big pressure on the Chargers to not just make the playoffs in 2022, but to compete for their own Super Bowl title so they don't risk being left behind in the Los Angeles market.