Chargers GM: AAF can benefit NFL

Los Angeles Chargers general manager Tom Telesco believes the recently launched Alliance of American Football can grow into a viable developmental league for the NFL.

"It's a great idea," Telesco told ESPN's Eric D. Williams. "It has the potential to be a nice complement to the NFL. It's a great spot for a developmental league for players, but even aside from that - coaches and front office, officiating, athletic trainers and video equipment people, public relations - all of that. So I think it's a great place where people can develop in every department of football operations.

"Every department that touches a football team can get some real-life experience."

The AAF kicked off its first set of games a week after the Super Bowl. The teams' rosters featured plenty of former NFL players and ex-college stars.

The league consists of eight teams including one in nearby San Diego and another in Tempe, Ariz., and the Chargers plan to take advantage.

"With San Diego close and Arizona pretty close, it will be pretty convenient for us (to scout)," Telesco said. "It's a place where young guys can go play."

Telesco also pointed out the inherent advantages the AAF provides for players aspiring to make the NFL.

"No. 1, you get a chance to go play football and get paid for it, so that's nice," he said. "No. 2, you get great coaching. And No. 3, you get a chance to put tape together so the NFL can evaluate you again. Most of these guys we've seen before, but it gives them a chance to develop and learn, get better at their craft and get it on tape."

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