Once a week, Anthony Lynn heads to the podium right off the practice fields at Hoag Performance Center.
The candid head coach is known for his honest answers, which is why the praise he gave for three young players on Tuesday was particularly noteworthy.
Artavis Scott
The all-time leading receiver in Clemson history first joined the Bolts as an undrafted free agent last May. He combined an impressive training camp with an equally notable preseason campaign, and was one of the last players cut during the final roster reduction. Luckily, the Chargers were able to sign him to the practice squad, where he spent the entire year honing his craft. According to Lynn, Scott is making quite the impression this spring.
"He's looking good. Young guy who did well on special teams last year. Kept him on practice squad all year (and) he knows the system so he's playing fast, very confident….He's making plays. He's going to have a chance to make the roster."
Isaac Rochell
Los Angeles' seventh-round pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, the Notre Dame product appeared in four games a year ago, notching five tackles (four solo) a sack and two tackles for loss. He really came on down the stretch, establishing himself as a key member of the defensive line rotation. Now, the 23-year old is picking up where he left off, and looks like he has a chance to make his mark in 2018:
"He's grown, man.He's like a weed. He's stronger, faster. He just looks more mature on the field. I can't wait to see him in pads. I think he's going to have an impact on this team."
Austin Ekeler
The best underdog story of 2017, Ekeler is continuing to turn heads. As an undrafted free agent out of Western State in Colorado, the running back emerged as the complementary back to Melvin Gordon. He carried the ball 47 times for 260 yards and two touchdowns, averaging 5.5 yards per carry, while catching 27 passes for 279 yards and three scores. So far this offseason, his performance has Lynn thinking Ekeler has quite the encore in store.
"I think he's picked up where he's left off. Still growing, has a lot to learn, but I love his work ethic. He's a professional. He's developing just fine."
