Jim Harbaugh speaks Chargers' dream scenario into existence in latest mock draft

Jim Harbaugh is enjoying his first offseason as the Chargers' new head coach, and rightfully so, since his team is in a great spot to add a top talent in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Los Angeles currently owns the No. 5 overall pick, but it may be the biggest benefactor with several quarterback-needy teams in a QB-rich draft.

"There's talk of four quarterbacks going in the first four picks. Boy, if that happens, that pick really becomes like the No. 1 pick in the draft," Harbaugh told reporters at the NFL annual league meetings. "If four quarterbacks go in the first four picks, that's not like the fifth pick anymore. That's like the No. 1 pick of the draft for teams that have a great quarterback already."

That's exactly what happens in CBS Sports' Pete Prisco's latest mock draft.

The Chicago Bears take USC QB Caleb Williams at No. 1. The Washington Commanders land LSU QB Jayden Daniels at No. 2. The New England Patriots select Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy at No. 3 and then the Vikings trade up to No. 4 for UNC QB Drake Maye.

Four quarterbacks have never been taken in the first four picks of the draft, but if history is made, the Chargers will have their choice of the top non-QB prospects. 

If that's the case, Prisco believes Los Angeles will decide to draft Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 5.

"With Keenan Allen traded to the Bears and Mike Williams released, they need to get a receiver in the worst way," Prisco writes. "Marvin Harrison Jr. is considered by most to be the best."

Harrison Jr. has proven to be exactly that after posting 144 catches for 2,474 yards and 28 touchdowns from 2022-23. He would instantly upgrade QB Justin Herbert's depleted arsenal following the losses of Allen and Williams this offseason.

The Chargers may opt to strengthen their offensive line instead with the likes of Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt, who is also viewed as the best at his position. 

It would be difficult to pass up on a player like Harrison Jr. who would normally be a top two or three pick in any other year.