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Los Angeles Chargers No. 5 Pick: A Legitimate Opportunity for Marvin Harrison Jr.

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated 3/25/24

During the AFC Coaches Breakfast at the NFL Owners Meeting, Los Angeles Chargers head coach, Jim Harbaugh spoke about the high value of the number five overall pick in the draft.

There is talk of four QBs going in the first four picks. That would mean number five is like the first pick of the draft. We know we got a great player that’s gonna be there.

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Obviously, Harbaugh didn’t go as far as naming the player the Los Angeles Chargers would want to target with the ‘first’ pick but after moving on from Mike Williams and Keenan Allen, most assume they would opt for a wide receiver. And with Marvin Harrison on the board, it would be hard to think they would go for the high-volume, high-impact target.

It was speculated that Harrison was a lock at pick four, to the Arizona Cardinals, but with mounting evidence that a team will move up to that spot for a QB, it leaves the door wide open for the Los Angeles Chargers

Marvin Harrison Scouting Report

At Ohio State, Harrison earned the prestigious Biletnikoff Award and was twice named a First-team Associated Press All-American as well as the Big Ten Conference WR of the Year. Additionally, he secured a spot on the First-team All-Big Ten Conference roster.

He led the team with an impressive 67 receptions, he also tied for third in the FBS with 14 receiving touchdowns and ranked 10th with 1,211 receiving yards, averaging 18.1 yards per catch. Having started 12 games, he made history as the first player in school history to achieve two 1,000-yard receiving seasons.

Think The Los Angeles Chargers Will Definitely Draft A WR With Pick 5? Think Again.

Harrison may not be the fastest player on the field, but his consistent speed and crafty route-running make him a tough matchup for defenders. Regardless of his position on the field, he has a knack for getting open and making tough catches, even in traffic. He’s particularly effective on possession routes, showing quickness and excellent ball skills, especially on deep plays. With a proven track record of scoring touchdowns in various ways, Harrison is poised to make an impact at the professional level. His versatility and ability to perform well in different situations make him a valuable asset, and he’s projected to be a starter from day one with high production expectations.

Los Angeles Chargers Have The Inside Track

Harbaugh and Harrison have ties going back three decades. Harbaugh was the quarterback of the Indianapolis Colts when Harrison’s father was drafted in the first round in 1996. They played together for two seasons before, Harbaugh was traded to the Baltimore Ravens. Harrison led the team in receptions and receiving yards in both seasons.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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