NFL Free Agency: Derek Cox or Jerraud Powers?

November 8, 2012; Jacksonville FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars cornerback Derek Cox (21) prior to the game against the Indianapolis Colts at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Chargers already know that their number one and number two guys are both testing the free agency waters tomorrow. And they’ve already expressed that they won’t be looking to pick up any big name players in free agency. But that doesn’t mean that they can’t shop around for some great steals. With a deep market for corner backs this off-season, San Diego just might be able to find someone cheap to fit the bill. UT-San Diego has said that a league source has mentioned Derek Cox and Jerraud Powers as possible targets for San Diego.

Cox is a young guy but has already made a name for himself in the NFL. In four seasons in the NFL, he has 12 career interceptions and 203 combined tackles. Cox is a guy who could help out in the run support but stick with the receiver streaking down the sideline, too. He has a good speed and is great in man coverage. He’s a strong guy and likes that initial chuck at the beginning of the play. He can handle a big physical receiver. Cox would be a good fit as a physical ball-hawking corner.

Powers has been in the league just as long as Cox, but played in five less games. He has a career 210 combined tackles and 6 interceptions. Powers is another one of those run support guys on the outside who racks up tackles. He’s a bit small but he plays big. He likes to get physical and has an eye for the ball and then goes and fights for it. He doesn’t let his size define his play on the field.

Nov 6, 2011; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts cornerback Jerraud Powers (25) intercepts a pass and celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

Both Cox and Powers came into the league in 2009 via the NFL Draft in the 3rd round. Both of these guys have certainly made a name for themselves and will surely garner a bit of attention starting tomorrow. There’s probably not a chance that the Chargers will sign both of these guys. So who should the Chargers go with?