ClutchPoints
The Los Angeles Chargers hit a six-game improvement this past season. Now the Bolts can turn to the NFL Draft to capitalize on their playoff run. That’s where general manager Joe Hortiz, head coach Jim Harbaugh and the front office enter the picture.
The GM/head coach combination started their new era through Joe Alt as their top 10 selection. They also discovered a second round gem in Ladd McConkey. Both became future cornerstones, and spearheaded the Chargers’ improvement. This time the Chargers will wait until selection No. 22 to make their first pick.
The franchise is already healthy salary cap wise. The Chargers have enough room to make a run at Josh Sweat or even Keenan Allen in a possible reunion. But the Bolts have multiple areas to address. And can turn to their eight draft picks to fill those needs.
But we’re focusing on three players here. We turn to the PFF mock draft simulator to see who lands with the Chargers through their first three picks.
Los Angeles must tweak up both sides of the ball, even as an AFC Wild Card team from 2024.
The pass protection got exposed badly in their first round exit. Justin Herbert took four brutal sacks in the 32-12 loss to the Houston Texans. So offensive line help next to Alt is a must.
Harbaugh, however, may need to retool his backfield — which was one of the strengths of the Chargers. Leading rusher JK Dobbins is a free agent. Even Gus Edwards isn’t a lock to return.
Elsewhere, the Chargers are watching the twilight years of Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa. Tuli Tuipulotu brings intrigue for the future after delivering a team-high 8.5 sacks, but he needs help. The secondary can also add some reinforcements for Pro Bowl safety Derwin James. Especially with the high number of free agents in the defensive back room.
Los Angeles selects between No. 22 to No. 86, holding three total picks. Time to see who lands to the Bolts.
Harbaugh and Hortiz add new youth and speed in the backfield. Which signals Dobbins and Edwards are out. But the Bolts roll with trench help first at No. 22.
Here’s the complete list of Chargers selections through the simulator:
The Chargers delivered the league’s top scoring defense plus surrendered the fewest rushing yards. But they struggled against Houston by allowing 168 rushing yards. Nolen makes perfect sense to bolster the interior.
The 6-foot-4, 290-pound Nolen brings a powerful pop to stun run blockers, then clog the running lane. Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, though, will fawn over Nolen’s pass rushing. Nolen is a slippery defender who Ole Miss trusted on defensive...
