Does losing Merriman make the chargers defense less valuble from a fantasy standpoint?

Question

Or would you still consider them number 1?

Answer 1

Well to start, San Diego's defense isn't a clear cut number one, many people consider Minnesota's D to be the top gun.  But regardless of that, I would value their defense sightly lower, but not to the point where you'd need to draft low tier defenses ahead of it.  Merriman is critical in pass rushing; not only because he racks up sacks but because of the general pressure he puts on opposing QBs which will add up to less points for the offense in the long run.

Answer 2

I would say that it does.  Minnesota is now number one (or at least in my book).  The Chargers are still one of the best, but not the best anymore.

BK