The Chargers Have a Pretty Savvy Front Office

by Stan, Ghosts of Wayne Fontes

Perhaps, not completely understated, but oft times forgotten in this whole Michael Vick saga is the fact that the Falcons actually traded up in the draft to select Vick. Pardon me, if this horse has already been beaten, but let me quickly explain.

The Chargers had the #1 overall pick and eventually traded it to Atlanta in exchange for #5 overall, which turned out to be LaDainian Tomlinson. You may have heard that scenario played out this week and the rest they say...is history.

It's worked out pretty well for the Chargers and not so much for the Falcons. However, LT may be the big name that comes to the forefront when you hear this sidebar to the Vick story discussed, but the real reason the Chargers actually made this move was to acquire Tim Dwight. Yes, that Tim Dwight. The late GM of the Chargers John Butler was all about Tim Dwight, despite being white and a suspect WR. Call it blind luck or fate, but Butler's decision to move the #1 Pick (Vick) for Tim Dwight and the #5 overall has changed the course for two franchises.

The Chargers, despite being desperate for some remedy at QB coming off the Ryan Leaf era, opted to pass on Vick and later selected Drew Brees that same season. Again, we can call it blind luck all we want, but at some point it becomes savvy. Drew Brees fit the bill for several seasons in San Diego and although he's proving the Chargers may have made a mistake by letting him go, they aren't exactly scrambling for help.

A.J Smith, the current Chargers G.M made his imprint on the Chargers organization in 2004 by moving, yet another #1 overall pick (Eli Manning) for a handful of draft picks, including QB Phillip Rivers, pro-bowlers Nate Kaeding and Shawne Merriman. And you have to wonder what the Giants think about that decision these days. Eli can't seem to take the next step as a leader and now he's engaged in a media squabble with Tiki Barber. Chalk up another one in the Chargers favor.

Sure, they are by no means a flawless organization as evidenced by the way the whole Marty situation was handled. However, since the Ryan Leaf debacle the karma police have no doubt been looking out for the Chargers. They've built this current crop and contender off draft hunches and upon passing over a soon to be convicted felon for a devout christian, who happens to be the best player in the NFL. This sure has set the wheels in motion.

And then by fate, the Manning Royal family made it known their desire to not have poor little Eli subjected to warm weather year round, old pacific and the best fish tacos at South Beach in OB on the globe. Well, it's all worked out pretty damn well in San Diego. They are the ones laughing to the bank during these tumultuous times in the NFL.

Call it fate or luck, but the Chargers have been making hands down the best moves around the NFL to put forth a roster capable of making a deep run this season. It only pales in comparison to what has taken place with my beloved Detroit Lions. Anyhow, as of now...I'm 3/4's converted to being a full on Chargers fan. And it's nice to run with a team where you never have to question the decisions of the front office.

So, when you look out at the Chargers roster...thank Michael Vick and Eli Manning if they are hoisting the Lombardi trophy when all is said and done this season.