Standout LA Rookie Unpacks Eventful First Year

Tuipulotu's emergence as a starting linebacker was due to the heavy injuries that the Chargers experienced this entire season. The rookie responded well though, pulling in 4.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He also had eight tackles for loss and 11 QB hits, which is only behind Mack. 

Tuipulotu revealed to Chargers.com, what it was like experiencing his first pro season, especially being called on to start.

"That gave me a good taste of the league," Tuipulotu said about stepping up in his rookie year due to injuries. "When somebody goes down, somebody's coming up.

via Tuli Tuipulotu, Chargers.com

"I think it just gave me a good taste of what the league is and what could happen," Tuipulotu added.

via Tuli Tuipulotu, Chargers.com

The old expression of "trial by fire" is certainly true for Tuipulotu, as he had to step in to fill the shoes of the vets who went down. Again, his season stats showcase that the rookie linebacker is poised to have an amazing career. 

Even with some good rookie numbers, Tuipulotu understands that the NFL is the next level. 

"I think I exceeded my expectations, but I didn't play as well as I could've played," Tuipulotu later added. "I didn't think I was going to play as much this year than I have, but I also think I could've played way better than what I put out this year."

via Tuli Tuipulotu, Chargers.com

The rookie has a huge career ahead of it, and this small sample size should be enough to excite the Chargers.