The 2019 NFL draft is officially history. The Chargers stacked deck primarily on the defensive side of the ball. The haul made by the team has gotten mixed feelings by supporters, but there are a few reasons why fans should feel optimistic about it entering this upcoming season.
With that, here are three reasons why Bolts fans should be excited about the 2019 draft class.
Interior defensive line should be much more improved
The defensive tackle position was better this past season after being the weakest group in 2017. The Chargers lost three contributors from that group this offseason, but managed to bring in two players that should bring the same, if not, a more superior value in the trenches.
First round selection Jerry Tillery and seventh round pick Cortez Broughton were the two pieces that Los Angeles added last weekend in the draft. Both are disruptive players who have proven themselves in college to be a force at getting after the quarterback or stopping the run.
With Brandon Mebane coming back and Justin Jones entering his second season after building some momentum towards the end of the year with his expanded playing time, the interior part of the defensive line should be stout, if they all are able to stay healthy.
No more concerns about the safety position
A couple months ago, Jahleel Addae was cut in part in a salary cap move after his below average season, opening a spot at the free safety position. The Chargers filled that hole with their No. 60 overall selection in former Delware FS Nasir Adderley.
It appeared to be unlikely that Adderley would’ve fallen to them at the backend of the second round after being touted as the No. 1 safety and many had a first round grade on him.
The thought of Adderley and Derwin James patrolling the back of the defense for many years should be enticing. He should flourish as a centerfielder, where he can use his range, instincts, ball skills and athleticism. It will also give Los Angeles the ability to move James all over the field as their defensive chess piece.
Reinforcements at the linebacker position
One of the biggest headlines for the Chargers last season was their lack of depth at the linebacker position. It got thin after the team was hit with three season-ending injuries to Denzel Perryman, Kyzir White and Jatavis Brown.
General manager Tom Telesco made the decision to bring back Perryman and add veteran Thomas Davis prior to the draft. During the event itself, Telesco shored up the position with Drue Tranquill and Emeke Egbule. Both selections came on Day 3, but the players themselves offer great reliability in case Los Angeles were to catch the injury bug.
Tranquill can play the WILL or MIKE who brings a high-motor player that is effective at stopping the run, bringing the heat as a blitzer and can hang with running backs and tight ends in coverage.
Meanwhile, Egbule has a great blend of size, length and athletic ability. He lined up off the ball at Houston, showcasing fluidity in coverage and he played on the line of scrimmage as a pass rusher, displaying a lightning quick first step to get to the quarterback. If Uchenna Nwosu were to go down, they can call on Egbule to step.
