Chargers: at age 34, Freeney is still effective

About a year ago today, The San Diego Chargers placed pass rusher Dwight Freeney on injured reserve with a torn quadriceps muscle. At age 34, and coming off a major injury, there was much doubt as to if Freeney could return to form and produce in an area where the Chargers desperately needed help.  Last year, The Chargers ranked in the bottom third for pass rush with a ranking of -17.6; which affected their entire defense.

A healthy Freeney is hoping to change that for San Diego and currently has an overall grade of +10.6 and a pass rush grade of +7.9. Through the first quarter of the season, Freeney sits atop our Pass Rushing Productivity list for 3-4 outside linebackers with 22 total pressures (sacks, hits, hurries). In fact Freeney’s 22 total pressures is second in the league for all defensive positions behind only J.J. Watt (32), whom many believe to be the best defensive player in the league.

Freeney’s continued production is vital for The Chargers’ success on defense as The Chargers are without OLB Melvin Ingram till at least Week 11 of this year.