--The team's third-round pick, Vaughn Martin, was found above the northern border by a keen Chargers scout, according to director of college scouting John Spanos.
"Our northeastern scout (Tom Gibbons) went up to Canada for a workout that was attended by multiple teams," Spanos said. "We looked into everything about his background and ability on the field. We felt lucky he was still there when we picked because we liked him all along."
--The Chargers are hoping safety Kevin Ellison can stay healthy after having three knee surgeries at USC.
"He's a strong safety that is real big and physical and strong against the run," Spanos said. "He's a very instinctive and aware player that plays faster than his 40 time. He played on one of the best college defenses in the nation."
--GM A.J. Smith hopes he hits another homer with another SEC offensive lineman Tyronne Green, a fourth-round pick from Auburn. Green is a 6-foot-2, 309-pounder that earned All-SEC honors after beginning his college career as a defensive lineman.
"Most people know the Southeastern Conference is a running conference, a physical conference," said Jimmy Raye, the team's Director of Player Personnel. "He's played against a lot of guys that are now in the NFL like (LSU's) Glenn Dorsey. We think that will translate well to his play in the NFL."
Chargers left tackle Marcus McNeill, a two-time Pro Bowler, played at Auburn.
--Wide receiver Demetrius Byrd will not participate in the minicamps as he recovers from a car accident.
"We drafted Demetrius because he's a good football player," Spanos said. "When he and his doctors say he's physically ready, that's when we'll start thinking about his future with the Chargers.
"Right now we're only thinking about his well-being and wishing him a complete healthy recovery. Football should be secondary for him right now."
-- The Chargers' minicamp next month will not be open to the fans. A flood during the offseason damaged the facility, which prevents the team from entertaining spectators.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "We need to bring pressure. This is a guy that can bring the heat. (He's) physical, nasty, a great presence. We're going to give him to Coach (Ron) Rivera and turn him loose." -- Chargers general manager A.J. Smith on first-round pick Larry English.
