Cesaire playing leading role in fill-in job

Friday, Dec 29, 2006
By Casey Pearce, Chargers.com

Teammates and coaches call him tough, gritty and versatile.  For defensive end Jacques Cesaire, there’s one characteristic he strives to exude more than any other.

“I just want to be reliable,” Cesaire said.

During the Chargers’ AFC West title run, the fourth-year defensive end has been that and much more.  When Cesaire signed a new five-year contract in February, it wasn’t the most publicized offseason move the Chargers made, but it’s proven to be one of the most significant.  With Igor Olshansky and Luis Castillo each missing time this season, Cesaire has started nine games in 2006, filling it at both defensive end positions as the Chargers have remained one of the league’s best defenses.

“He’s played so well, and he’s such a terrific person,” Head Coach Marty Schottenheimer said.  “He’s one of the most responsible people I’ve ever been around.  You can always count on him to be ready to play and play at a high level.  He’s done a terrific job for us.”

While Cesaire has been a full-time starter before, he’s never had as good of a season as 2006.  He started the final 12 games for the Bolts’ 2004 AFC West championship squad and finished the year with 24 tackles and a half sack.  This year, he has a career-high 35 stops and four sacks, including 1.5 in last week’s win at Seattle.

“I’m definitely a better player,” Cesaire said. “There are different things I’ve worked on in the offseason as far as pass-rush leverage, getting my body fat down and getting in better shape. You always have to get better every year.”

On Thursday, Cesaire was recognized as the team’s Alumni Player of the Week following his effort against the Seahawks.  His fellow defensive linemen were happy that Cesaire’s efforts were recognized.

“Jacques is a big part of what we’re doing,” defensive tackle Jamal Williams said.  “He’s such a good guy who is always encouraging us and doing everything he can to help us win.  He’s a great teammate.”

With Castillo listed as questionable for Sunday’s regular-season finale against Arizona, it’s likely that Cesaire will again be on the field as a starter, having an opportunity to close out a season that has been special for the team and for him as an individual.

“This has been so much fun for all of us, and we’re excited about what’s still to come,” Cesaire said.  “I take a lot of pride in my role on this team, both on the field and in the locker room.  I’m always trying to encourage the guys around me and get them to understand how special this is.  When you’re given opportunities like I have been this year, you have to do everything you can to make the most of them.  That’s what this season has been all about for me and for so many guys on this team.”

Jackson added to injury report

Wide receiver Vincent Jackson missed Thursday’s practice after suffering a minor hamstring injury.  Schottenheimer said that Jackson will most likely work in a limited role Friday, but the injury isn’t of major concern.

“He’s got full range of motion and good strength,” Schottenheimer said.

Offensive tackle Marcus McNeill (neck), guard Scott Mruczkowski (knee) and wide receiver Eric Parker (neck) were upgraded from questionable to probable.  Schottenheimer said that Parker had a “terrific” practice.

Blackout lifted

Make that 19-consecutive home sellouts for the Chargers.  The blackout for Sunday’s game against the Cardinals was lifted Thursday, meaning the game will be shown on local television in Southern California.

A limited number of Club Level tickets are still available and can be purchased at the Chargers’ ticket office at Gate C at Qualcomm Stadium, online at www.Chargers.com <http://www.chargers.com/>  or by calling (619) 220-TIXS (8497).

Family business

Following Thursday’s practice, Michael Turner got to meet Michael Turner.  The Chargers third-year back shares the same name as Schottenheimer’s son-in-law, who was on hand for practice along with Schottenheimer’s wife, oldest daughter and grandchildren Brandon and Danielle.