LA Chargers: Day three mock draft after trading day two picks
With the 151st pick, the LA Chargers select…
Offensive Tackle. Hakeem Adeniji. 151. 821.
The odds of the Chargers signing someone like former Eagles’ tackle Jason Peters went up after they didn’t select an offensive tackle in the first round. Pursuing a veteran on a short term deal is the way to go, but bringing in an offensive lineman in the fifth or sixth round wouldn’t be a bad idea from a competition standpoint.
Hakeem Adeniji is a day three tackle that could fit the Chargers. He’s got great initial punch off the line of scrimmage. His long arms and quick hands made him an incredibly efficient lineman In Lawrence. Out of the 48 games in four years at Kansas, Adeniji started all of them. Not many prospects are able to slide around with ease like he has demonstrated in his footwork on tape. With little to no injury history, he’s a durable prospect with a lot of experience.
Even if Adeniji won’t be starting on the offensive line anytime soon, competition is needed. The Chargers have to push players like Sam Tevi or Trent Scott instead of just giving them starting roles from the get-go. Make them earn it. Also, it wouldn’t be bad to see if Adeniji or a veteran tackle could push them.
Adeniji had to earn his spot at Kansas. His work ethic, physicality, and push-off of the line are very admirable qualities. The Chargers already beefed up the offensive line this offseason with Trai Turner and Bryan Bulaga. Adding a decently skilled rookie with good work ethic can only help the team further.