5 trade-up candidates for the LA Chargers in the 2022 NFL Draft
By Ryan Harris
LA Chargers general manager Tom Telesco, who some consider to be a genius in the NFL draft, has hit on almost every early pick that he has had with the Chargers since 2013. Some of his last few first-round picks include Rashawn Slater, Justin Herbert, Derwin James, Joey Bosa, and Mike Williams.
After an unbelievable beginning to the 2022 offseason, there is a lot to look forward to in the 2022 NFL Draft.
What positions do the Chargers need to fill in the 2022 NFL Draft?
After signing two defensive tackles in Austin Johnson and Sebastian Joseph-Day, the urgent need for an interior defensive lineman has been eliminated. Re-signing Mike Williams also removed a big need for drafting a receiver early, however it is not out of the picture for Telesco to go this route. Signing J.C. Jackson definitely helps the secondary, but it would not be a bad idea to acquire another corner in the second or third round, depending on availability.
The release of veteran Bryan Bulaga and the uncertainty of Oday Aboushi creates a need for a right side of the offensive line, whether it is guard or tackle. Unless the goal is to rely on recently tendered Donald Parham Jr. and developing Tre McKitty, drafting a tight end in the second-third round could be a viable strategy.
Since the departure of Melvin Gordon 2019, the Chargers have not had a true runner of the football. If somebody like Cordarrelle Patterson is not signed in free agency, trading up to draft a true running back to take some of the work load off of Austin Ekeler would be beneficial to the offense.
A position that some may feel to be set in stone for the Chargers, the wide receiver room could use one more upgrade. Even with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, finding a receiver in the draft that shows speed and promise could be helpful in making a deep run in the playoffs this year.
We will break down potential targets that the LA Chargers could acquire if general manager Tom Telesco decides to trade up to any specific spot in the draft.