Another day, another defensive tackle for the Chargers in a mock draft. This one doesn’t quite add up, though. In CBS’s latest mock draft, the team selects Christian Wilkins of Clemson. I have questions about Wilkins. Something is missing from him. You don’t have to be a flashy player to warrant a first round pick, but skillset just isn’t there in my opinion.
Here’s what CBS had to say about Wilkins:
Christian Wilkins, DT, Clemson
Wilkins returned for his senior season at Clemson and it turned out to be his best. In addition to helping the Tigers to a national title, Wilkins set career bests in sacks (5.5) and tackles for loss (14.0). Imagine a defensive line featuring Wilkins, Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram.
Wilkins adds limited value as a pass rusher at the next level. Adding a player like Wilkins in the first round doesn’t really make sense for the Chargers. They don’t need somebody that can stop the run. They need somebody that can win their 1-on-1 matchups inside.
Wilkins is more than likely a nose tackle at the next level. That would also mean the Chargers are doubling down on the same position as Justin Jones, their third round selection from a year ago. It just doesn’t make since from a positional value standpoint.
