The Los Angeles Chargers are doing their due diligence in scouting offensive line talent for the upcoming draft class.
With the team's recent injury history, the Chargers must do everything they can to ensure the future of the position group. With their latest visit, they are somewhat addressing the issue.
According to several reports, the Chargers held a visit with Oregon offensive tackle Isaiah World. While World has proven to be worth the Charger's time, he brings with him a lengthy injury list that may raise a few eyebrows.
Chargers hold visit with Oregon OT Isaiah World
During the Peach Bowl last year, World suffered a torn ACL, which ended up affecting his draft stock. His accolades do speak for themselves however, having earned a second team nod All-Big Ten nod his senior season. For the Chargers, World could be seen as an addition to a seemingly lackluster group, where his injury status would not stand out.
NFL.com's Lance Zierlein also had his worries, but still commended him for his abilities on the field: "Big, long tackle with heavy hands but sloppy technique that limits his consistency. World is a high-character player who did a decent job of working around his limitations during his college career. His first contact, whether engaging run blocks or throwing his punch, is firm and purposeful. Elements of his run blocking will translate to the league despite an elevated pad level but his pass protection is filled with holes and requires immediate attention. If he can cut back on quick losses, World has a chance to become an average swing tackle."
With this information, it would make sense for a player like World to be selected later in the draft, if at all. In fact, it would probably not be a surprise if the Chargers were able to add World as a UDFA. It all depends on how the O-line group is viewed and most importantly, who the Chargers believe in.
Having re-signed Trey Pipkins, the Chargers have given themselves a bit of leeway in how selective they can be in this draft. Still, with injuries being the primary concern moving forward, holding a visit with World sets them up for a competent backup plan. After the poor play of Penning last season, chances are World will have ample opportunity to step into a role that suits him best.
Perhaps under the guidance of both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, World would have at least a year before assuming a larger depth role. The bottom line is that the Chargers need bodies along the O-line now more than ever to have a chance to compete with the AFC's best.
While World certainly could just be another risk that the Chargers could end up regretting, it could well be worth it as a developmental project.