Rookies Mickens and Reed having a ball

Safety and cornerback making an impact on defense that sparked Chargers' win streak.

- BY BENJAMIN ROYER

SAFETY RJ Mickens (27) celebrates with Chargers teammates after making his first career interception Oct. 23 against Minnesota.

(HARRY How Getty Images)

RJ Mickens feels as if the blueprint is right in front of him. Across the Chargers locker room, he sees No. 3 and immediately knows of the possibilities.

The rookie safety has played a leading role in sparking a Chargers defense that has helped lift the team to a three-game winning streak heading into Sunday's game against Jacksonville. Before getting the chance to prove himself, Mickens learned from the secondary corps around him: Tony Jefferson, Elijah Molden, Donte Jackson and No. 3, Derwin James Jr., the defense's leader.

"He's willing to pour into me and help me get to where he's at and surpass him," said Mickens, who secured his second career interception against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. "And he's willing to help me. I'm really willing to go to him."

Mickens isn't the only rookie who has made a name for himself within the secondary, as injuries have led to opportunities for players lower on the depth chart. Nikko Reed, whom the Chargers signed as an undrafted free agent out of Oregon, got his “feet wet” two weeks ago against the Tennessee Titans before being thrust into action against Aaron Rodgers and the Steelers.

During that game, Rodgers threw a pass that seemed destined to drop into the hands of wide receiver Calvin Austin III. Flying through the air, Reed stretched his left arm toward Austin and recorded his first pass breakup, helping the Chargers hold a nine-point halftime lead en route to a 25-10 victory.