Chargers select another Notre Dame defender in LB Drue Tranquill

Tom Telesco must have liked what he saw on film when watching Notre Dame games this offseason.

With their fourth-round selection, the Los Angeles Chargers selected Drue Tranquill, a linebacker out of Notre Dame. He will join his former college teammate, Jerry Tillery, in Los Angeles. Tillery was the Chargers’ first-round pick.

Tranquill dealt with some injuries during his college career and was granted a fifth year of eligibility as a result. He ended up playing in 51 games for the Fighting Irish, racking up 292 total tackles (25.5 for loss), 5.5 sacks, three interceptions and five fumble recoveries.

Tranquill is a tough, instinctive football player with a high motor, but he does have some limitations. He’s not the biggest guy and he possesses below-average speed. He will have to make his career but doing the little things and working his way into a rotational spot as a backup.

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Most likely, his career will start on special teams.

The Chargers have a solid linebacking corps that includes depth and a guy who is a solid special teamer in Nick Dzubnar. Tranquill will have to do something to stand out this summer.

Getting back to his injuries, they weren’t minor setbacks. He has torn the ACL in each knee. You would think the team’s medical staff has done its due diligence in regards to that, but it is still a concern.

Telesco does like his linebackers though. Tranquill marks the ninth linebacker drafted by the Chargers’ general manager.

What are your thoughts on this pick? Sound off in the comment section below.