One word that will not be used to describe the 2014 Chargers is “consistency.” Injuries decimated the team, especially along the offensive line, where the Bolts could really rely on two things:
Somebody playing out of position, and King Dunlap.
The massive left tackle started all 16 games and, for most of the season, played at a near Pro Bowl level. Dunlap was one of the team’s top free agent priorities this off-season, and they did not take long to lock him up.
Dunlap and the Bolts agreed to a new 4-year, $28 million contract. That’s a bargain for reliable left tackles in today’s NFL. The $7 million average salary makes the 29-year-old Dunlap the 16th-highest paid LT in the league.
The Chargers voted Dunlap their 2014 Offensive Lineman of the Year. According to statistical website Pro Football Focus, Dunlap allowed only three sacks on 625 dropbacks.
The Bolts will now turn their attention to the rest of their free agents, with wide receiver Eddie Royal and defensive back Brandon Flowers the top remaining priorities.
