Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz worked hard to fill his team’s roster holes this offseason, particularly in the trenches. He strengthened the offensive and defensive line and also added key blockers in tight end Charlie Kolar and fullback Alec Ingold.
However, Los Angeles still lacks a clear starter at right guard or an impact third edge rusher behind Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu. They are expected to prioritized both positions in this month’s draft, per ESPN’s Matt Miller.
The Chargers remade the interior of their offensive line this offseason, bringing in Tyler Biadasz at center and Cole Strange at left guard. They have a few options at right guard in Trey Pipkins and Trevor Penning, but a first-round pick could be an upgrade, similar to how Joe Alt unseated Pipkins at right tackle in 2024. The 2026 draft class has a number of NFL-ready guards spread throughout the first two days of the draft with Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane considered the top player at the position. He may not even get to the Chargers’ first-round pick (No. 22 overall), but if he is available, he could both be the best player available and fill the team’s biggest need.
Off the edge, the Chargers re-signed Mack to pair with Tuipulotu for another year, but the 35-year-old has openly considered retirement in each of the last two offseasons. They will likely want to find a long-term running mate for their 2023 second-round pick who could also be an upgrade over Bud Dupree as a rookie. Edge rusher rankings vary wildly behind Arvell Reese, David Bailey, and Rueben Bain Jr., so Los Angeles could see their first-round targets snapped up before they are on the clock. In that case, they may opt to wait until the second round, where Illinois’ Gabe Jacas “has been identified as an option at No. 55,” according to Miller. Jim Harbaugh will appreciate his always-hot motor and relentless pursuit of the football that resulted in 19 sacks and 26.5 tackles for loss in the last two years.
Walking out of the draft with Ioane and Jacas – or a similar combination of starting guard and impact edge rusher – would seem to be a home run for a Chargers team that has largely been built through the draft.
I agree with the title here. If a pure guard can be had at 22 that’d be great though an OT that might be started at guard and also bring his experience at tackle in case Slater gets the dreaded injury bug again would also be choice.
Edge to play behind or with Mack could boost the D a bit yet another rookie DT could be a bonus to run defense.
With only 5 picks I’ve hopes they don’t trade back and miss out on a ‘considered premium’ draftee just to garner a lesser player. Trading picks for rental players is a lesson in what not to do from last season as it didn’t get em over the hump in the playoffs. Yea got the team ‘in the dance’ but even I wouldn’t have bet more that a single dollar they’d do much.
@JO.2. Yeah they could go after fano, but i think lions would get him. I can see them trading down. The first round oline prospects will probably be gone. Probably could grab pregnon or Rutledge in the 2nd.
With luck they might find a trade partner to take Johnston and give up a day 2 slot. Bring back Allen for one more year and snatch a WR day 2
@JO.2 im hoping they trade back to 33 34. Could happen thats the jets and Cardinals pick if they want to move up for Simpson. Johnston might only get a 4th. But I can see them getting Jennings he’s familiar with McDaniel.
That scenario seems like it could be a bonus to still be in an area to get quality yet steps away from over paying a rookie.
@JO.2. 49ers might be the team that wants Johnston. Saying they might let Jennings walk and release aiyuk. If they aren’t going to pick up the fifth year option might as trade him for a pick, and not worry about comp pick formula.
The more I look over ‘impact’ player the more I like Eli Stowers, good hands, good after the catch, decent speed for size, runs through tackles and after a catch or TD doesn’t get crazy celebrating, seems like ‘do the job’ kind of kid.
@Jo.2. I like stowers, but he’s not a need maybe you can get him in 2nd and grab a guard in the 3rd. I think the best option is taking a DE and OG. In the first two rounds is what they need and there’s good talent where the picks land.