LA Chargers NFL Draft: 3 biggest takeaways from 2021 rookie class
By Peter Panacy
Florida State Seminoles defensive back Asante Samuel Jr. (26) Mandatory Credit: Imagn Images
No. 2: LA Chargers secondary could become elite
The LA Chargers wisely re-signed cornerback Michael Davis during the offseason, and he figures to play yet another prominent role in getting the Bolts secondary into a position where it can stave off some of the serious playmaking threats teams like the Chiefs and Denver Broncos have. On top of that, Los Angeles can bank on getting All-Pro safety Derwin James back fully healthy, only adding to the playmaking prowess of this unit.
Tack on veteran cornerback Chris Harris Jr., and the Chargers already had a solid crop of defensive backs to build upon.
Harris is aging, yes. And he could eventually become the reserve option to solely man the nickel spot after the Bolts took Asante Samuel Jr., who despite his sub-6-foot frame, plays like a 6-foot-2 defensive back and has the aggressive alpha-type mentality to challenge the biggest of wide receivers in front of him.
In short, Samuel was the best of both options: a luxury pick that also filled a position of need.
Last year, the Bolts owned the NFL’s ninth-best pass defense with 3,578 yards allowed. While a good deal of that had to do with the pass rush, and it’s commendable considering James’ season-long absence on injured reserve.
Los Angeles’ seventh-round pick, Mark Webb, has speed on his side and can play a variety of positions. He might have a long way to go to make the roster, but it’s better to have quality reserves than not.
Look for this unit to be even better in 2021.