The San Diego Chargers had an outstanding year during last year's 2004 regular season, culminating with winning the AFC West Division. Much of last years success has been credited to the performance of quarterback Drew Brees. Yet those close to the Chargers know better and understand that one player may make a difference but not make or break a teams success. The Chargers were also helped by one of the finest running backs in the NFL, LoDainian Tomlinson. Tomlinson is the total package, great hands, lot's of speed, block and is very productive. Further, Tomlinson finished last season with a career high 18 touchdowns and four 100 yard plus games in rushing in his last six starts. Combine the leadership of Brees and the effectiveness of Tomlinson with tight end Antonio Gates, and you can see why the Chargers are expected to have another successful season in 2005.  Gates lead the Chargers with 81 catches and also contributed with 13 touchdowns.

The Chargers did however experience a small set back with the loss of offensive line coach Hudson Houck  There's not much more bad news, however, for the San Diego Chargers, because they were also able to strengthen their defensive with the draft of what is hoped to be a fantastic pass rusher Shawne Merriam and defensive tackle Luis Catillo.