Joe Hortiz
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Joe Hortiz
For the Los Angeles Chargers, many people are on the fence about how to view them. While some believe they are just a few pieces away from contention, others believe that the current roster is good enough to contend. However, no matter what either side thinks, the draft remains one of the most pivotal aspects of the Chargers’ offseason moving forward. Now, with the fallout of certain free agency moves, the Chargers’ draft options just became a whole lot clearer.
Offensive Line Questions Reshape Draft Strategy
For the Chargers, they have ultimately played it safe. With the most cap space in the league, they haven’t really spent it, only making small moves to improve more detailed aspects of their offense. However, by signing Tyler Biadasz, they believe they have at least found their long term center. Only one position is up in the air along the O-line now: offensive guard.
While Cole Strange could fill one of the guard positions, another still would remain open. What with the loss of Tyler Linderbaum by the Ravens however, the Chargers could have been forced to wait for a guard in the later rounds of the draft.
With the Chargers somewhat being forced to sign Cole Strange, combined with the Ravens’ new need for an O-lineman, one of several pundits’ top choices for the Chargers at No. 22 in Vega Ioane could be long gone. With the Ravens picking at No. 14, they might bite the bullet and draft Ioane themselves.
Defensive Options and Trade Scenarios Come Into Play
If that scenario plays out, the Chargers may pivot their focus to the defensive side of the ball in the first round. A player like Jermod McCoy out of Tennessee could be a tempting addition to the CB room. or they could focus on replacing Odafe Oweh by picking up either Kayden McDonald or Caleb Banks.
They could also find use for either of Cashius Howell or Akheem Mesidor off the edge as well. For many fans, it could lead to unrest as the left guard position goes unaddressed. Still, while the needs on offense appear to be dire, they can pick up good value later on in the draft.
One interesting option could even be trading back if they feel they cannot find anyone of value on either side of the ball late in the first. This could lead to more mid-round picks where the pool for O-lineman widens.
Obviously, in situations such as these, the Chargers would have to take a swing at a prospect that may not quite be NFL ready. Still, with the choices they have made in free agency, there is little room for error now. While there are still several appealing options on the open market, the cheapest way to address the Chargers’ needs is through the draft. Most importantly, they would be saving all of that cap space for potentially even more important signings.
While it’s a bitter pill to swallow for Chargers fans, it could end up working down the road as well.