Los Angeles Chargers: The top six most likely picks at six

5. DT Derrick Brown, Auburn

In addition to the offensive line, the Los Angeles Chargers have a pretty significant need on the interior of the defensive line. While Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram have been balling out on the ends of the line, the interior has lacked, especially in its ability to stop the run.

The need for an interior lineman increased on Friday when the Chargers released Brandon Mebane. The Chargers might ultimately bank on the development of Jerry Tillery or draft a tackle later, but taking Derrick Brown wouldn’t hurt here.

Some may argue that Brown isn’t as flashy of a pick in the first round with the position he plays probably having a decreasing value in the NFL. It’s no secret that defensive ends have been more valued than interior linemen over the years. The opportunity to give Bosa and Ingram a weapon at tackle who grants them more leverage is what makes him a tantalizing prospect for the Chargers though.

His strength, tacking, and quickness off the line are daunting before even getting to his ability to knock down and spin off opposing blockers with ease. His ability to win leverage battles and stuff the run from the inside of the line is something the Chargers have missed for years.

However, it still remains one of the less likely picks at the moment. This feels like a need that Tom Telesco will address through free agency or later in the draft. Plus, he did just draft Tillery in the first round a year ago. It feels unlikely that he’ll go back to back in two straight years for one position. Expect Justin Jones to take a step forward in development as well.