Re-grading the Chargers' 2023 draft class one year later
By Jason Reed
Chargers grade for Tuli Tuipulotu: A+
If the Chargers get a failing grade for drafting Quentin Johnston with the 21st pick then they pass with flying colors for taking Tuli Tuipulotu in the second round. Tuipulotu did not get the mainstream recognition he deserved but he was one of the best defensive rookies in the entire sport.
The Chargers had one of the best pass-rushing fronts in the entire sport when Tuipulotu lined up next to Khalil Mack, Joey Bosa and Morgan Fox. That group is going to run it back in 2024 and fans have every reason to believe that Tuipulotu will be even better than he was as a rookie.
Tuipulotu's versatility and pass-rush ability is a huge part of the Chargers' defensive identity and it is not absurd to say that a Pro Bowl could be on the horizon.
Chargers grade for Daiyan Henley: D
The Chargers needed a blocking tight end more than anything else last year and one of the best blocking tight ends in the draft fell to the team in the third round. Instead of taking Darnell Washington, the Chargers took a linebacker that didn't end up starting at all for the team.
Washington did not have an amazing pass-catching season but he was a better blocker as a rookie than anyone in the Chargers' room. Washington would not have fixed the room by himself, but he would have been a foundational piece that made last year's room better and removed the need for Will Dissly this year.
Instead, the Chargers have a linebacker prospect who may never develop as the new regime in LA has no ties to him whatsoever.