Coach Rob Chudzinski (Getty)
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On Wednesday, the Chargers finalized a deal to bring Rob Chudzinski back to San Diego. Chudzinski, who coached the team's tight ends from 2005-2006, will return in the same capacity with the added title of assistant head coach.
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Chudzinski enjoyed a stellar first stint with the Chargers. During his two years leading San Diego's tight ends, Antonio Gates averaged 80 receptions and more than 1,000 yards per season.
He used his success in San Diego as a launching pad for his career, moving on to become the offensive coordinator of the Cleveland Browns. During his first year in Cleveland, the Browns scored 402 points and tallied 5,621 yards, both of which were the third-highest totals in team history.
Chudzinski returns to a tight end corps that is deeper than ever. Gates is headed to his fifth Pro Bowl in a couple of weeks and Brandon Manumaleuna is one of the most versatile H-backs in the NFL.
The battle to watch will be for the No. 3 spot on the depth chart. Veteran Kris Wilson came on late last season, proving valuable as an in-line blocker and on special teams, and is under contract for another season. He'll battle with 2007 fourth-round pick Scott Chandler, who spent last season on injured-reserve with a toe injury.
Chandler is a big target with soft hands, although he has yet to catch a pass in a regular season game. It remains to be seen if Chudzinski can coach him up and work him into the rotation, or if Chudzinski will stick with the three veterans.
Either way, the Chargers are delighted to have "Chud" back in the fold.
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