LA Chargers Draft: Ranking the top five 2021 NFL Draft needs
LA Chargers biggest draft needs: 4. Wide Receiver
Keenan Allen was extended for four more years prior to last season. There’s no question marks about that situation. However, the depth chart behind him is not necessarily built for the long term.
Mike Williams enters the 2021 season on his 5th year option that the Chargers announced they were picking up last year. It would be the last year of his rookie contract, which makes one wonder if it’s time to extend or trade him prior to the season. Tyron Johnson, Jalen Guyton, and K.J. Hill are the other notable receivers on the roster.
The uncertainty of Williams’ long term position with the team is why wide receiver clocks in at four. If he is traded or the Chargers decide to rescind the fifth year option, it would create an immediate need to be addressed, likely on day two of the draft. An extension would probably drop receiver down the need slightly for me.
While most are familiar with Devonta Smith, Ja’Marr Chase, and Jaylen Waddle, this draft has some great depth. Rashod Bateman, Kadarius Toney, and Tylan Wallace could be interesting day two or three fits.
I’ve gotten a lot of questions about what the Chargers should do if Waddle or Smith were to fall in the first round, but it just wouldn’t make sense to go wideout that high for me. There are more pressing needs in round one.
The Chargers don’t necessarily need a star receiver from this draft. They just need a consistent presence to add to their depth at the position for the time being.