The offseason is near, which means that predictions for free agency and the NFL draft are going to continue to roll out.
Here is our latest three-round mock draft for the Los Angeles Chargers:
Round 1, No. 6, QB Justin Herbert, Oregon
Whether or not Philip Rivers is back next season, the Chargers can’t hold off on finding his successor. The team could look to draft offensive line help here, but they are in a great spot where one of the top quarterbacks like Herbert will most likely be on the board.
Herbert, the 6-foot-6 and 237 pounder, has everything that the Bolts will look for in their future quarterback — arm talent, mobility, experience, football intelligence and production. While there are some areas that need to be addressed – he is a guy with high upside.
With some polish and being surrounded with talent like wide receivers Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, tight end Hunter Henry and running backs Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson – I can see Herbert really maximizing his potential.
It wouldn’t be the most sexy selection in eyes of the fans, but it’s a pick that the organization would make given their philosophy, need and most importantly, he checks off on nearly all of the boxes when it comes to what’s required in their evaluation process.
Round 2, No. 37, OT Josh Jones, Houston
There’s no denying the glaring hole at the right tackle position – and possibly left tackle depending on whether or not Russell Okung is able to stay healthy. This is a position that the Chargers could address via free agency, but in this case they look to find a plug-and-play offensive tackle in the draft.
Jones, a four-year starter for the Cougars, is a former basketball star whose traits from that sport are very visible on the football field. He has the footwork, flexibility and knee bend to flourish in pass protection, as well as the strength to move defenders in the run game.
Jones played at both left and right tackle in his four-year stint, so he has the ability to man the right side for Los Angeles and kick over to the other side when Okung’s tenure is up.
Round 3, No. 71, WR Devin Duvernay, Texas
The Chargers need one more playmaker to join the dynamic duo of wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Like the past two selections made, they could hone in on one that will be playing in the Senior Bowl in a couple of weeks.
A high school track star in the state of Texas, Duvernay is a deep threat and an effective short receiver. Built like a running back, Duvernay possesses explosiveness and long speed to beat defenders, sticky hands, vision, and blue-collar toughness.
In four seasons for the Longhorns, Duvernay posted 176 receptions for 2,468 yards (14 yards per catch) and 16 touchdowns. The 5-foot-10 and 210 pounder also offers special teams value.
