Scouting Ahead: Cleveland Browns week 5 opponent, LA Chargers

Keeping track of a plethora of weapons

One boost Justin Herbert has had in his young career is the remarkable selection of offensive weapons and skill players that the Chargers have at their disposal. Keenan Allen is an obvious one, a mainstay in the team since even Philip Rivers’ late prime, but he’s not alone.

Mike Williams has an incredible build as well as skillset at receiver, Austin Ekeler is a threat on the ground and in the passing game at running back, and Jared Cook showed on Monday Night Football that he’s capable of leading the team in receiving still at tight end. The team is stacked, and Herbert will have alternatives to whoever the Browns are able to shut down first. It is a big ask to shut all of them down, but the task might be made easier by a persistent Browns pass rush.

The Browns are a bit thin at defensive back currently, with 2021 first-round pick Greg Newsome out nursing an injury. Greedy Williams stepped up admirably in Minnesota however and got an interception in his return to starting corner.

Denzel Ward is reliable as ever, and the safeties have been excellent in support. Malcolm Smith has also been a boost at linebacker with Anthony Walker Jr. out, and his partner in crime Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah offers stunning athleticism from the position to help in coverage as well as the run game.

Everyone will need to do their part in coverage to help contain the Chargers offense. The Cowboys game proved that pressure can force Herbert into turnovers and forced throws, and every Chargers home game has proved that the few Chargers fans in LA can be overwhelmed by the crowd noise of visiting fans.

If the Browns defense keeps their focus like the last two weeks, and Cleveland fans travel well, the environment could quickly turn on the home team on Sunday.