Philip Rivers will turn 36 during the 2017 season. As such, the Los Angeles Chargers need to think about replacing their long-time quarterback. Tight end Antonio Gates believes that the replacement may already be on the roster.
Speaking with Tom Krasovic of the San Diego Union-Tribune, Gates praised second-year quarterback Cardale Jones, noting that he has a “special ability.”
“The ceiling is unlimited for him,” Gates added. “Whether or not he gets there all depends on the ability to process things – on the ability to work hard and to make these sacrifices that he needs to make in the classroom and on the field. And, he’s been doing a great job at that so far.”
The Chargers acquired Jones from the Buffalo Bills during the offseason in a trade that Jones was reportedly quite happy with.
Jones certainly brings a rare combination of size, speed and passing ability that the NFL has not seen much of from the quarterback position. Still, he is very raw.
In his time at Ohio State, Jones existed in a run-heavy offense. In 20 games as a Buckeye, he attempted only 269 passes. Jones saw action in only one regular season game during his rookie year with the Bills, completing 6-of-11 passes with an interception.
But if nothing else, Jones is certainly impressing the right people at camp. That can only work in his favor going forward.