3 draft prospects that have legitimate ties to the Chargers
By Jason Reed
Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia (and every other defensive Georgia prospect)
Nolan Smith is a very exciting EDGE prospect that seemed like he was destined to go to the Chargers early on in the draft process. However, Smith went ahead and put together an incredible showing at the NFL Combine and now it seems unlikely that he will fall to the 21st overall pick.
If Smith does somehow fall to 21 it would be shocking to see the Chargers pass on him. The team needs depth at edge rusher and needs someone who can replace Khalil Mack in 2024 when he inevitably becomes a cap casualty. Smith is the perfect freak athletic to be a rotational player in his rookie year before taking a larger step in year two.
Smith's connection to the team revolves around defensive analyst Robert Muschamp. The Chargers hired Muschamp this offseason and prior to that, he served in the same role for the Georgia Bulldogs.
Staley is already someone who has been on the record in saying that he respects the Georgia program and he has taken multiple Bulldogs in his two drafts as head coach. With Muschamp in the building to give a first-hand account, Smith could be the no-brainer dream selection for the Bolts at 21.
He is not the only prospect that the Chargers could consider. Cornerback Kelee Ringo and safety Christopher Smith are also defensive Bulldogs that will be drafted this year. Offensively, Muschamp could help the team take someone such as tight end Darnell Washington.
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