USC pass-rusher gives Chargers the defensive juice they need
The Los Angeles Chargers added much-needed pass-rushing help during the second round of the NFL Draft on Friday.
With the No. 54 overall pick, Los Angeles selected USC EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu, who led the FBS in sacks (13.5) and was second in tackles for a loss last season (22).
Last season, Los Angeles hoped combining DE Joey Bosa and LB Khalil Mack would form one of the most fearsome pass-rush duos in the NFL. However, the experiment didn't fulfill its potential since Bosa missed 12 games with a groin injury.
Without Bosa, the defense faltered. Los Angeles ranked 20th in yards and 21st in points allowed. Adding another pass-rusher ensures that a lack of depth won't hamper the unit again.
Also, Mack may not stay in L.A. for the long term due to his contract, which has two years remaining. According to OverTheCap, his 2024 cap hit ($38.5M) is the largest on the Chargers, making him a potential cut candidate.
Tuipulotu, a 2022 first-team All-American, fits the Chargers because he can play in a 3-4 defense. Some scouts believe he's underrated and possesses decent power and athleticism.
"He's kind of flying under the radar, but I think he's a really good player. If you like strong and athletic players, then you will like him," a director of scouting for an AFC team told NFL.com's Lance Zierlein.
Los Angeles could use more dynamic, defensive difference-makers to stop AFC West rival Kansas City and QB Patrick Mahomes.
Mahomes has dominated against the Chargers, posting a 7-2 starting record, throwing 21 TDs and recording a 99.9 passer rating.
To catch up to the Chiefs, Los Angeles must add more players like Tuipulotu.
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