Why the Chargers’ 2013 Draft wasn’t all that and a bag of chips

By Conor Cahill
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Oct 13, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills middle linebacker Kiko Alonso (50) tackles Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) during the first half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bengals beat the Bills 27-24 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

Round 2: Pick 6 (38)
Manti Te’o, MLB

Selection Position: The Chargers were slated to pick at #15 (counting forfeited picks), but traded that pick (450 points) and their 4th rounder (74 points) to the Cardinals to get Manti Te’o at the 6th pick (520 points). The Chargers overpaid for this pick by only 4 points. Not bad. What is bad, is what they gave up in value and opportunity cost. More on that in a second.

Value Added: Manti missed the first 3 games of the season with a foot injury, but started the last 13 and progressed every game. He ended the season with 61 tackles and 4 passes defensed. Manti looks to be a guy that can lock down the 2nd MLB spot, assuming Butler will continue to be the leader. Was it worth it to give up a 4th rounder to get a 2nd MLB when there were so many holes on the roster?

Opportunity Cost: Since I have a full NFL season on my side, my answer is no. The Chargers had the unique postion of picking right before the Buffalo Bills who also happened to need a MLB. Who did they select you ask? Kiko Alonso, Defensive Rookie of the Year. Alonso racked up 159 tackles, 4 picks, and a forced fumble in his rookie season. He had 27 tackles, 2 picks, and a sack before Te’o even suited up for a game. 4-3, 3-4, whatever, this guy is an amazing player. Call it questionable scouting or questionable decision making, but TT left a lot of talent on the table with this one.

My Grade: C

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