LA Chargers: NFL draft selections from 1-12 that improve the 13th pick

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports – LA Chargers

Picks that help the LA Chargers: Philadelphia takes Jaylen Waddle or Devonta Smith at 12

I mentioned the Bengals taking Chase earlier, but the Chargers should be hoping Philadelphia takes a receiver for a different reason. Following Philadelphia’s trade down the draft, many think their pick will be a wide receiver or cornerback. That makes the list a pretty specific group of guys, depending on who’s left.

Theoretically, Jaylen Waddle or Devonta Smith (likelier Waddle) could be on the board here. In terms of cornerbacks, the Eagles could also select whoever is left between Patrick Surtain and Jaycee Horn. Perhaps both are on the board if Dallas goes in an unexpected direction at 10.

For the best possible selection at 13, the Chargers should have an elite cornerback prospect option available to them. Caleb Farley is a possibility there, but his recent back procedure is a concern on top of the back and knee issues he had in college. In addition to having one of Sewell or Slater available, it would be great if the Chargers had one of Surtain or Horn available.

That may sound unrealistic, but it’s entirely plausible if Philly reunites Jalen Hurts with one of his Alabama weapons. In addition to the run on quarterbacks, the Chargers should be thrilled if there’s a run on receivers.