Posted by Will BrinsonBob Sanders has been on a tour of various NFL teams over the past week or so -- he swung by Buffalo, visited with Jacksonville and checked in with Rex Ryan's New York squad -- since being released by Indianapolis. But a surprise suitor: the San Diego Chargers, who announced Thursday night that they've signed the former Defensive Player of the Year.
"We are all very excited to add Bob Sanders to our defense," General Manager A.J. Smith said. "We have always held him in high regard. He's a smart, physical, instinctive player. His intensity and playmaking ability can make an immediate impact on our defense."
The Chargers didn't exactly struggle against the pass last season -- they actually ranked No. 1 in passing yards allowed -- but Sanders equates to a calculated gamble that could pay off huge dividends.
[Judge: Sanders the difference in San Diego?]
"There’s no question I'm excited. The fact that Bob was available and excited about being here and then having it work out is great," Head Coach Norv Turner said. "Our guys have unbelievable respect for him and what he's done through the years. Certainly he knows what we’re capable of doing, so it’s a great fit."
The timing is quite interesting, because the NFL and NFLPA just reached a 24-hour extension on CBA negotiations, leaving the window for teams to sign players open another day (although Sanders would probably have had until 11:59 PM EST to ink the deal anyway).
[Prisco: Signing Sanders a good move for Chargers]
While many teams have spent the day dropping costs like crazy by cutting players, the Chargers apparently felt the need to take a calculated gamble on the oft-injured Sanders in an attempt to strengthen to their defense. If Sanders returns to his Pro Bowl form, he'll make one of the best defenses in the league from last year even more dangerous.
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