Los Angeles Chargers 2017 draft prospect: Josh Dobbs

It sure seems like this is the year the Los Angeles Chargers will go looking for Philip Rivers’ replacement through the NFL draft.

That is, if you believe much of the talk that is out there.

We’ve already talked about many of the quarterbacks in the upcoming draft, including Deshaun Watson, Davis Webb and Patrick Mahomes. But here, I am going to touch on a guy who we haven’t even mentioned, Josh Dobbs.

The Chargers have held a private workout with Dobbs, who some draft analysts feel could be this year’s Dak Prescott, as Eric Williams of ESPN.com points out here. That’s high praise, so let’s take a little closer look at the quarterback from Tennessee.

Dobbs has a big, physical frame at 6’3″ and 216 pounds. He can make all of the throws and his quick release should appeal to many teams. However, the part of his game that is likely most attractive is his sure-fire ability as a dual-threat quarterback.

If a team sends too much pressure at Dobbs and he is able to step up in the pocket, look out. He will be looking to do much more than just move the chains.

The best part about drafting a guy like Dobbs in Los Angeles, much like any other developmental prospect, is that he won’t have to step in and play right away. Rivers should have at least 2-3 more years left, which would allow a guy like Dobbs time to learn the system, perfect his footwork and improve his decision making.

If the Chargers could unleash a guy like this in 2019 or 2020, he could be a serious weapon. In addition, the Chargers might be able to get him on day three of the draft, much like the Cowboys did with Prescott a year ago.

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Over the last several years, the Chargers have stood behind Rivers and used Kellen Clemens as his backup. Rivers has been able to take every snap in that time and will continue to do that until he can’t do it anymore. We must also keep in mind that Tom Telesco has drafted exactly one quarterback during his tenure as general manager, Brad Sorensen in the seventh round.

Is there anything to suggest the team will change their usual course of action this year?