By: PFC Chargers team writer: Robert Murdock
San Diego Chargers veteran Wide Receiver/Punt Returner Eric Parker will be traded or released by the start of the Chargers’ training camp which begins July 25, according to reports by the San Diego Union-Tribune. Chargers General Manager A.J. Smith neither affirmed nor denied these reports, simply stating “We don’t discuss our football business”.
Before an injury to Parker’s right big toe required surgery, Parker had been one of the Chargers’ most dependable receivers in recent years, displaying an eager willingness to make the tough catch over the middle, especially on crucial 3rd downs. He had been one of Philip Rivers’ favorite targets in his first season as starting Quarterback for the Chargers. The Chargers expected Parker to return to action during the 2007-08 season, however his injury did not heal as quickly as hoped, and he remained on Injured Reserve. This was certainly a factor in the Chargers’ decision to trade a second round draft pick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for veteran Wide Receiver and Pro Bowler Chris Chambers.
Several factors contribute to Parker’s apparent expendability. The Chambers acquisition has proven to an excellent move by the Chargers. Vincent Jackson has emerged as a top quality Wide Receiver, and a genuine offensive weapon. The Chargers appear enthusiastic about the talent and potential of Craig “Buster” Davis , and seem committed to developing their 2007 first round draft pick. Head Coach Norv Turner has also expressed interest in the potential Legedu Naanee has shown to be a playmaker. Additionally, Kassim Osgood, and Malcom Floyd will contend to fulfill their aspirations of an opportunity to contribute at the Wide Receiver Position. The Chargers are stacked with talent at Punt Returner, behind #1 PR/HB Darren Sproles. As if this wasn’t enough competition, the Chargers have recently signed four year veteran Wide Receiver/Punt Returner, Mark Jones to a one year deal.
Parker is reportedly healthy, able to pass a physical, and is ready to perform. Several teams have apparently contacted the Chargers expressing interest in acquiring the veteran WR/PR, including the Cleveland Browns, and the New York Jets.
1 response so far ↓
1 jackfrost // Jul 1, 2008 at 2:00 am
I personally would like to see Parker in a Charger jersey come the 2008 season.
I think he was a very important part of our offence the preceding years and was often overlooked, but his clutch 3rd down catches were hugely important on many occasions in those seasons. He also provides our only real threat across the middle on passsing downs and takes away the double teams on Gates, who will always be our #1 target, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to have Parker as a nice Decoy and to keep the “D” honest.
If he doesn’t show that he still has it, then there’s always time to move him on later.
I’d hate to think that the last memory we have of Parker is that game against the Pat’s where he had a “Shocker”……………….he’s a better player than that, and we all know it…………..
I hope I get to see him again…………only time will tell though.
Good luck to him, whatever takes place.
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