Re-grading the Chargers' 2023 draft class one year later
By Jason Reed
Chargers grade for Derius Davis: A
It seemed like a reach when the Chargers took Derius Davis in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft but it ended up being instantly justifed. Davis was drafted to give Ryan Ficken's special teams unit a dynamic return man and that is exactly what he gave the team.
Davis was one of the best returners in the entire sport as a rookie and the sky really is the limit for the former TCU receiver. With Davis' athleticism, the new kickoff rules, and Ficken's genius, it would not be surprising to see Davis become a household name simply for his special teams impact.
Best of all, Davis had a bigger offensive impact than anyone could have expected. He was by no means a high-volume offensive player, but he kickstarted the offense on several occasions when the running game couldn't get going.
Chargers grade for Jordan McFadden: B
Jordan McFadden hasn't gotten many opportunities to prove his worth in the NFL but the selection is still a good one. This was the second year in a row the Chargers drafted a tackle prospect from a big-name program to kick them into the inside and based on what McFadden did in the preseason, it looked like a good pick.
Fast forward to 2024 and Harbaugh is even talking about McFadden's potential to play center for the Bolts. If Harbaugh's vision ends up being correct then the Chargers may fix a huge long-term hole on the offensive line with a 2023 fifth-round pick.