So says their general manager A.J. Smith.

And his finger of blame points to players and himself.

"I'm not real happy in a number of errors," Smith said. "I need to pick up my game."

The Chargers were able to win a playoff game last season but were above .500 just one week of the season. They did get hot after losing eight of their first 12 games, but they also benefited from the Broncos' historic collapse.

"It could have gone either way," he said.

Smith is saying some of his players didn't produce as expected. But that the guy picking those players -- him -- has blemishes as well.

"The last couple of years there are some things, there are some things I need to look at," Smith said. "I know players have to play: if players play they make you look good. If players don't perform they don't make you look real good."

It can be speculated Smith was likely let down by the play of, among others: cornerback Antonio Cromartie, linebacker Matt Wilhelm, safety Clinton Hart and fullback Jacob Hester.

"The bottom line is those players are a reflection on who brought them in or the decision made to bring them in here," Smith said.

"I don't know if I'm being hard on myself; I'm being quiet honest with you."

Smith's roster is still littered with Pro Bowlers -- even if running back LaDainian Tomlinson decides to leave. But Smith is perplexed how some players didn't play as planned.

"I like the organization and where we are -- we got a lot of good football players but (some) have either been mis-evaluated or aren't playing well."