The Los Angeles Chargers came into 2023 as a trendy pick to contend. Instead, injuries all across the offense, including superstar quarterback Justin Herbert, derailed a promising season. The team finished the year 5-12 and fired head coach Brandon Staley after three seasons. With new coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz at the helm, the Chargers are looking to rebuild quickly through the NFL Draft.
Los Angeles Chargers NFL Draft Needs
The Los Angeles Chargers hold nine picks in this month’s 2024 NFL Draft. They own the No. 5 overall pick in the first round. The Bolts also received an extra fourth-round pick in the recent Keenan Allen trade and got an added compensatory seventh rounder. The pressure is on to add much-needed talent around centerpieces like Justin Herbert, Khalil Mack, and Derwin James. Let’s dive into what the Chargers need most.
Wide Receiver
Heading into the 2023 season, this was undoubtedly one of the strengths of the team. But the offseason has left the Wide Receiver room bare. After another season-ending injury, the Los Angeles Chargers parted ways with deep threat Mike Williams, who signed with the New York Jets. Veteran wideout Keenan Allen was shipped off to the Chicago Bears after declining to restructure his salary.
The team has to address its lack of playmakers with the fifth pick. Three quarterbacks are projected to come off the board in the first three picks, leaving at least two potential stars like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Rome Odunze available for the Chargers to choose from.
Offensive Line
The Los Angeles Chargers’ line is anchored by star left tackle Rashawn Slater. But beyond that, it needs help. Center Corey Linsley is likely to retire after a serious medical issue this season, leaving a huge hole in the middle. The Bolts could also use help at right tackle.
Harbaugh and Hortiz seem intent on establishing a strong running game in Los Angeles. Doing so would require adding new talent on the offensive line. First round options like Joe Alt or JC Latham may be a stretch to take at No. 5, but the team could address the line on Day 2.
Cornerback
The Los Angeles Chargers ranked 28th in the league in yards per attempt allowed and 25th in interceptions. Asante Samuel Jr. is on the roster, and the team just signed Kristian Fulton in free agency, but it needs difference makers in the secondary. I’d be surprised if a corner wasn’t one of the team’s Day 2 priorities.
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Daniel Willon is a sportswriter based in Southern California. A lifelong Chargers, Lakers, and UCLA fan, he’s covered everything from football to surfing. Follow him on X @dwillsports.
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