Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
The San Diego Chargers have to cut their roster down to 53 players by 3p.m. PDT on Saturday, and Robert Meachem could be one of the casualties. According to U-T San Diego columnist Kevin Acee and beat writer Michael Gehlken, Meachem will not be on the 53 man roster.
Meachem signed a four year deal worth $25.9 million last year after playing with the New Orleans Saints from 2008-2011. His best season was in 2009 when he had 45 receptions, 722 receiving yards and nine touchdown receptions. The receiver had his worst year in 2012 when he finished with 14 receptions, 207 receiving yards and two TD receptions in 15 games. Meachem’s two TD receptions did not rank in the top 100, his 207 receiving yards barely ranked in the top 200 and there were more than 225 players with more receptions than Meachem last year.
According to an article by Chris Wesseling on nfl.com, Meachem’s body is reportedly broken down. Meachem had knee surgery after the 2011 NFL season which could have contributed to his struggles in 2012, but he looks worse this year which means the reports may be true.
If Meachem is released, this would be another example of an attempt to clean up the mess left behind by former Chargers general manager A.J. Smith. Tom Telesco released former Kansas City Chiefs left tackle Jared Gaither in March after he was signed to a four year deal worth $24.6 million last year. Gaither missed 12 games last season due to injuries and his will to play was questioned by some of his teammates.
Malcom Floyd, Vincent Brown, Keenan Allen, Eddie Royal and Seyi Ajirotutu are projected to be San Diego’s receivers after the final roster cuts. The first four do not come as a surprise, but Ajirotutu was re-signed two weeks ago and has a shot at making the team over Meachem.
San Diego’s last preseason game is tonight at home against the San Francisco 49ers at 7:00p.m. PDT. This will be Meachem’s final opportunity to make a lasting impression on San Diego’s coaching staff before Saturday’s deadline.
Related:
Some Surprising Veterans on Roster Bubble for San Diego Chargers
San Diego Chargers Rumors: Is Robert Meachem Headed for Release?
