Potential options for Chargers in first round of draft

In the wild-card round, Jacksonville victimized the Chargers with the third-largest comeback in NFL playoff history and spotlighted Los Angeles' problems. Here are potential solutions in the NFL Draft for the Chargers, who have the 22nd overall selection in the first round. (Technically, it's the 21st overall pick because the NFL docked Miami its first-round pick for tampering.)

Offensive line

Problem: The line was supposed to be one of the Chargers' biggest strengths, with Justin Boone of The Score ranking it as the NFL's eighth best entering 2022. The Chargers did a decent job protecting quarterback Justin Herbert, but they had the third-lowest rushing yards in the NFL. Some of that may fall on recently fired offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi, but the Bolts clearly need depth and more talent on the line.

Solution: Draft Florida guard O’Cyrus Torrence to take over for guard Matt Feiler, whose contract runs out next year. Los Angeles should also consider Georgia tackle Broderick Jones, who could replace unrestricted free agent Trey Pipkins III. Leading rusher Austin Ekeler (915 yards) would be pleased with either selection.

Defensive Line

Problem: The Chargers struggled against the run, allowing the fifth-most yards per game (145.8). Part of that can be chalked up to injuries to linebacker Joey Bosa and defensive tackle Breiden Fehoko, but the Bolts badly need new blood. 

Solution: Clemson defensive end Myles Murphy had 11 tackles for loss in 2022, which would’ve put him second on the Chargers after linebacker Khalil Mack. Baylor defensive tackle Siaki Ika is a physically imposing player at 6-foot-4 and 358 pounds. Both could add some punch to the defensive line.

Tight end

Problem: It's not the most pressing concern, but to get the most from Herbert, the team should consider drafting a tight end. The Chargers are at their best when they have a catch-first tight end (think future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates). Gerald Everett played well in 2022 (58 catches for 555 yards), but those stats were pumped up by injuries to wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. 

Solution: Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer (6-4, 265) was compared by Pro Football Focus to former Cowboys star Jason Witten. Wrote ESPN's Mel Kiper: "NFL teams want tight ends who can stretch the deep middle of the field — and block well enough to line up next to offensive tackles. That’s Mayer, who can be a force in the red zone. Linebackers simply can’t cover him."

Adding another offensive dimension is always a positive in today's NFL.