Chargers Star Rookie Was Crucial Part Of Win Over Jets

Los Angeles Chargers rookie linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu has been making waves over the last few weeks, and he has emerged as a mainstay in the LA rotation. He played a big role in the team taking down the New York Jets 27-6 earlier this week, and it was a great sign of things to come for him.

Tuipulotu had two sacks and five combined tackles against the Jets in the Chargers previous game, giving them a major boost defensively. He also added in one tackle for loss as well against New York.

"It felt good," Tuipulotu said Wednesday about his game in Week 9. "I think I was going through a slump for a couple of weeks so good to bounce back with a two sack game and hopefully stay consistent throughout the season."

Per Omar navarro of Chargers.com

His emergence this season has allowed the Chargers defense to thrive in ways that it hadn’t been able to in previous years. He gives them another strong option along the defensive line, and it forces teams to focus on him, rather than their other stars like Joey Bosa or Khalil Mack.

“Tuipulotu has the second-most total pressures (29), second-most run stops (14) and best run defense grade (84.3) among all rookie edge rushers who have played at least 20 percent of the snaps, according to Pro Football Focus.”

Per Omar Navarro of Chargers.com

He seems to be getting better each week, and his comfort level is growing. His teammates and coaching staff all trust him, which does go a long way for a rookie.

If he can keep up this level of dominance, it could possibly see him vault into the conversation for AFC Rookie of the Year. Tuipulotu had high expectations coming into the year as a second-round draft pick, but even the Bolts have to be happy with how he has performed.

Don't forget to join our community at LA Sports Report, where we celebrate all things Chargers!