Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
According to a tweet from U-T San Diego beat writer Michael Gehlken, “free agent Justin Bannan arrived in Detroit today. Will take physical with the Detroit Lions on Tuesday. San Diego Chargers also have interest in veteran.”
Aubrayo Franklin played 12 games and started nine at defensive tackle with San Diego last year before he signed a contract with the Indianapolis Colts. This left a void because San Diego lacks depth at this position. Cam Thomas has the most experience among San Diego’s defensive tackles with five starts in three seasons.
Bannan started 15 of 16 games with the Denver Broncos in 2012 and was a part of a defense that ranked second in the NFL in fewest yards per rushing attempt allowed.
San Diego’s front office made changes, and seven defensive players will enter the season as starters for the first time with the Chargers. However, the DT position could be the only one in which San Diego got worse from last year. Corey Liuget and Kendall Reyes played DT in college, but they are two of San Diego’s best pass rushers, so moving one of them from DE to DT would be pointless unless they change from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense.
If San Diego stays with their 3-4 defense, which is most likely to be the case, then a strong push needs to be made to sign Bannan should he not come to an agreement with Detroit today. Bannan is 34-years old so if San Diego offers him a deal, it should be for one or two years.
San Diego allowed 3.8 yards per rushing attempt in 2012, which ranked fifth in the league. If San Diego signs Bannan, he would be paired with Liuget and Reyes, which could make for a formidable defensive line.
