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LA Chargers: Four potential options to replace Trai Turner

By Alexander Insdorf

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 21: Offensive guard Gabe Jackson #66 of the Las Vegas Raiders blocks safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson #22 of the New Orleans Saints as running back Jalen Richard #30 of the Las Vegas Raiders rushes for a 20-yard touchdown during the second half of the NFL game at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Saints 34-24. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - SEPTEMBER 21: Offensive guard Gabe Jackson #66 of the Las Vegas Raiders blocks safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson #22 of the New Orleans Saints as running back Jalen Richard #30 of the Las Vegas Raiders rushes for a 20-yard touchdown during the second half of the NFL game at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Raiders defeated the Saints 34-24. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jamie Sabau/Getty Images) /

LA Chargers’ potential replacement for Trai Turner: The 2021 NFL Draft

To get a starting level guard in the draft, the Chargers would likely have to use one of their four Day 1/2 selections.

There are two fairly obvious options in round one. Rashawn Slater is a tackle who may convert to guard at the NFL level. Alijah-Vera Tucker out of USC can play either guard or tackle at the next level with plenty of experience playing both in college. Both of these players could play several offensive line spots and could be built around the rest of the needs of the group.

There are three realistic starting right guard options in round two. Wyatt Davis might be the best out of the late first, early second-round guards. The former Ohio State guard is the most pro-ready option in my opinion. He could start at right guard from day one.

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Trey Smith is a possible day two option but presents some risk. The Tennessee product has a history of pulmonary issues. Smith suffered from multiple blood clots in 2018 before coming back from his condition to play in the fall. Considering the increased DVT risk for him now and how quick Telesco was to get off of the Russell Okung contract due to the same condition, I’m not sure the Chargers take a risk on him.

Notre Dame’s Aaron Banks is great in pass protection despite needing a little work in the run game. While I’m not sure he’d start from day one, he’d definitely start from early on in the season. Also, did I mention he’s from Notre Dame? Surefire +20% odds he’s drafted by Telesco right there!

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