5 biggest Chargers draft needs for 2024

The Los Angeles Chargers' roster clearly isn't getting the job done in 2023. They sit at 5-7, and playoffs seem like a long shot.

Adding starters and depth should be on the front of their mind for this year's NFL draft. They need help on both sides of the football.

What are the Chargers' 5 biggest needs in the 2024 NFL Draft?

Cornerback

The secondary has been extremely inconsistent for Los Angeles again this season. The safeties have been a bright spot, but cornerback remains a major need. Nickelback has been a revolving door for the Chargers, and no one is performing well. 

On the outside, Asante Samuel Jr. has shown big-time flashes, but they need to see more consistent play from him. A scheme change may help him in the near future as well. At the other outside CB spot, Deane Leonard and Michael Davis have both taken a plethora of snaps. Neither have been impressive. The Chargers have allowed the 2nd-most passing yards per game this year. That's been their achilles heel against good offenses. 

The cornerback class looks to be deep again, and Los Angeles will definitely keep an eye on them in the 2024 NFL Draft. It wouldn't be a shocker to see them double dip at CB in the first four or five rounds, either. 

Edge Rusher

Khalil Mack is only under contract for one more season after this one. In 2025, he's set to test the market, and he will be 34 years old. Joey Bosa is under contract through 2025, but his injuries have began to mount in the past three years. Los Angeles could get out of his contract after this season, and that will be on the table to attempt to save money. He's a great pass rusher when healthy, but they will have to make a massive investment for two more years if they keep him around during the offseason. 

No matter what - the Chargers' pass rush will need an influx of youth quite soon. Tuli Taipulotu is a solid start to that, but Los Angeles cannot solely rely on him in the long-term. His run defense is the best of his game as well. 

Grabbing a pass rusher early in the 2024 NFL Draft should be no surprise if it comes to fruition for the Chargers.

Offensive Tackle

Rashawn Slater is an elite OT. On the other side of the OL, there's unknown for the future. Trey Pipkins is starting there right now, but he's a career backup. 

Offensive tackle is easily the most dire need for Justin Herbert and LA on that side of the football. Their protection has been better in 2023 compared to the past few seasons, but improvement is always welcome.

Running Back

Austin Ekeler is on the back-end of his career. We've watched his explosiveness decline with injuries mounting this season. Joshua Kelley is a good depth running back, but he is not a bell cow option for any NFL team. Picking up a running back with pass catching ability and pass protection talent will be on the Chargers' radar.