With training camps approaching, Scouts Inc. ranks the NFL teams 1-32 at nine positions. Today's position: Linebacker
1. San Diego Chargers
Shawne Merriman might just be the most disruptive defensive player in the game today. He is massive, extremely powerful and competitive. At times, he is a man among boys on the field and still probably has not reached his prime. On the opposite side, Shaun Phillips certainly benefits from Merriman's presence -- as does every player of San Diego's defense -- but Phillips is a fine player in his own right. He is a quick-twitch pass rusher who has gotten better in all areas year after year. There will be some change at inside linebacker. Stephen Cooper and Matt Wilhelm probably will be the starters. Neither is an exceptional talent, but they both should be solid starters between Merriman and Phillips. Donnie Edwards will be missed, though, especially from a coverage standpoint.