Chargers "aren't left with a lot of alternatives

Unfortunately this tremendous run came to an abrupt end when they lost to the Jets in the Divisional Round of the playoffs; 14-17 at home.

Despite this disappointing early exit, optimism for another West title and a deep run in the playoffs this season remains high. With the exception of the loss of RB LaDanian Tomlinson, their roster remains fairly intact from last year. They have an offense that finished the season ranked 10th in total yards per game, but fourth in total points scored. Their defense was ranked 16th overall, but 11th in points allowed.

QB Philip Rivers will once again be the key component on offense. Last year he threw for 4,264 yards, completing over 65% of his passes. He ended the year throwing 28 TD's against only nine interceptions.

One problem on the horizon is the status of his favorite receiver; Vincent Phillip Rivers Jackson. Already faced with a three game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy, Jackson is also caught up in a contract dispute that could keep him out of the lineup even longer.

If he is not part of this offense for a prolonged period of time it could have a serious impact on River's production.

In an effort to replace Tomlinson, the Chargers used Antonio Gates their first pick in the draft (12th overall) to select Fresno State RB Ryan Matthews. Matthews bring a power style of running that should be an excellent complement to the outside speed of Darren Sproles. He should also help to balance out an offense that was ranked fifth in passing but 31st in rushing in 2009.

San Diego used their next three picks in the draft on the defensive side of the ball in order to add some depth to unit that is starting to show its age. In the third round they added LB Donald Butler and in the fourth round they drafted FS Darrell Stuckey. They were also able to retain LB Shawne Merriman and DE Travis Johnson by resigning both to a one year deal.

Given the fact that the AFC West is one of the weakest divisions in the league, it is no wonder that San Diego is far and away the odds-on-favorite to win it again.

The NFL's new San Diego Chargers jerseys haven't made a threat to move out of San Diego and the antiquated Qualcomm Stadium, but, according to a report from NBC Sports, the team might make an ultimatum soon.

Mark Fabiani, a "Chargers stadium guru" was quoted in the report saying that the Chargers "aren't left with a lot of alternatives."

Fabiani was asked by a San Diego newspaper why the Chargers don't buck up and say in essence, "build it, or we leave."