LA Chargers mock draft: Bolts rebuild defense in fan-selected mock draft
By Jason Reed
With the 17th pick in this LA Chargers mock draft, the Bolts select Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
One of the directions that the LA Chargers can go in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft is the cornerback position. The best corner remaining on the board in this mock draft was Trent McDuffie from Washington. McDuffie came up against wide receiver Jameson Williams, right tackle Trevor Penning and edge rusher Travon Walker. McDuffie earned 34.7% of the vote, edging out Williams.
McDuffie is not a cornerback prospect who is going to come into the league and be a true CB1 from day one, which you can argue is what the Chargers need. However, his versatility to not only play different positions but different types of coverage makes him perfect for Brandon Staley's defense.
He is also one of the better corners in the draft when it comes to defending the run. Obviously, defending the run is not as important at the cornerback position, but it does help with Brandon Staley's defense, which doesn't typically stack the box.
Chargers were second in points per drive last year. Offense is already great. The key this year is to Herbert more drives and you do that with more defensive stops. CB or Edge should be the priority. McDuffie grades out better and can come in to fill the slot role instantly.
— Todd Miller (@tmiller712) February 17, 2022
McDuffie would add positive depth to the slot but would also be interchangeable on the outside next to Asante Samuel Jr. and Michael Davis. McDuffie is a bit on the smaller side, like Samuel, but it is manageable.
If the Chargers are able to sign a top-tier corner in free agency then McDuffie probably is not even going to be an option in the first round. If not, McDuffie would be a solid selection at corner.