3 slept-on Michigan players Jim Harbaugh might draft to Chargers

Since bringing in new head coach Jim Harbaugh, the LA Chargers' plans for the 2024 NFL Draft may have shifted quite a bit, at least in the eyes of folks on the outside.

Knowing Harbaugh to be a tough, old-school type of player's coach with a background in developing quarterbacks, we have a good idea of what to expect this weekend.

But, more than even looking at Harbaugh's type of prospect, we can only assume he will try to bring in at least one former player of his from the University of Michigan. While guys like J.J. McCarthy, Roman Wilson and Blake Corum headline some of the bigger names, the Chargers might also look a bit later and try to land one of the more underrated Wolverines.

Cornelius Johnson, WR

When the Chargers parted with Mike Williams, they lost a big-bodied target who can go up and make contested catches. If Los Angeles wanted to find a guy with those two traits, but later on, Harbaugh might bring in Cornelius Johnson.

At 6-foot-3, 212 pounds, Johnson has excellent size and brings overall athleticism to the wide receiver position. He's as strong as he is athletic, being able to bully opposing defensive backs and win almost every contested catch he comes in contact with. Johnson is also unafraid to do the dirty work, being a factor in run blocking as well. He could be a gem found in the later rounds on Day 3.

Josh Wallace, CB

Looking at the back of the sixth and potentially seventh round, the Chargers might find cornerback depth in Josh Wallace. If you're looking for a true Harbaugh-type, this is your guy. He isn't overly athletic or fast, but Wallace is intelligent and uses his ability to read receivers as one of his biggest strengths.

Wallace is also scheme-versatile. He is able to line up outside but also presents potential as a slot corner, if needed. Fundamentals are the name of the game for Wallace. Again, he won't blow you away with physical traits. But, he plays smart and is sound in his footwork.

Zak Zinter, G

If the Chargers want to find some depth on the interior offensive line, with a guy who could potentially start, look no further than a mid-round prospect like Zak Zinter. Look, if you're coming from the nation's best offensive line, two years running, there's a good chance you'll succeed in the NFL. Zinter is an old-school guard, with plenty of size at 6-foot-6 and the tenacity to win in a phone booth.

There's no better example of a tone-setting player, coming from Michigan, than Zinter. He's exactly who Harbaugh would love to model the Chargers' mentality after. If you're looking for toughness and physicality, Zinter is your guy.