For the first time since 2006, the editors here at Pro Football Weekly did not predict the Chargers to win the AFC West. That kind of sentiment seems to be music to the ears of the Chargers’ franchise.

Some things have not changed in San Diego. Philip Rivers is still the quarterback, Norv Turner remains the head coach — and he is still in a familiar place, on the hot seat, and many starters return. But after back-to-back seasons of missing the playoffs (a first for the Chargers since 2002-03), expectations are finally low — well, lower.

As written in " Whispers" earlier in July, there is a relaxed atmosphere in San Diego with the attention in the division focused on Peyton Manning and the Broncos. The Chiefs are a sexy “sleeper” pick with Jamaal Charles and Eric Berry returning.

It would be wrong for anyone to discount the Chargers. In fact, considering the lingering question marks about Manning’s health as well as the Broncos’ defense, it’s not ridiculous to think the Chargers are still the team to beat in the AFC West.

Last season, the Eagles “won” free agency, adding key veteran parts, but the abbreviated offseason kept Philly from putting it all together until it was too late. The Chargers loaded up on veterans this offseason, but in a different manner. They added starters and players who add depth, but no “stars,” ie: no player that would conjure up a “Dream Team” moniker for the Chargers.

GM A.J. Smith has made it clear that adding depth was important to the club, and he did so in a big way.