The first wave of free agency has come to an end, and the Chargers wasted no time signing some of the top-tier free agents this past week.
Los Angeles signed right tackle Bryan Bulaga, defensive tackle Linval Joseph and cornerback Chris Harris Jr., along with acquiring guard Trai Turner via trade.
Entering the offseason, it was evident that right tackle, nose tackle and cornerback were going to be positions of need and within the first few days of free agency, all three positions were addressed.
L.A. still has about $8 million left in spending money, so they could elect to make one more signing. Tackle Jason Peters is a viable option, as he is a proven veteran that would solidify the left side on a short-term deal.
Now, when looking at positions that still need to be addressed, quarterback, left tackle, wide receiver, linebacker and running back sit atop of the list.
Before these deals were done, it was believed that the Chargers would land quarterback Tom Brady. And while they had an offer on the table for him, the 42-year old chose the Buccaneers.
Now that Los Angeles made it clear that they’re comfortable with Tyrod Taylor as the starting quarterback heading into the upcoming season, all signs are pointing to them targeting a quarterback in the early rounds.
Based on the amount of work they’ve spent on solidifying the right side of the offensive line, it could be hinting to them targeting a left-handed quarterback like Alabama’s Tua Tagovailoa.
However, that’s just reading through the tea leaves. Ultimately, Oregon’s Justin Herbert and Utah State’s Jordan Love will likely be in strong consideration with the No. 6 overall selection.
If the Chargers addressed the quarterback position in Round 1, left tackles likely to be available in Round 2 consist of Boise State’s Ezra Cleveland, Houston’s Josh Jones and USC’s Austin Jackson.
Quarterback and tackle are addressed, now what? Wide receivers that could be targets in Round 3 consist of Penn State’s K.J. Hamler, Florida’s Van Jefferson, Texas’ Devin Duvernay and USC’s Michael Pittman Jr.
Entering Day 3 and having bolstered the offense, it might be time to switch gears and add to the linebackers room. Wyoming’s Logan Wilson, Appalachian State’s Akeem-Davis Gaither and Utah State’s David Woodward could be options.
After solidifying those primary needs, that’ll leave the Chargers with flexibility to draft a running back, cornerback and more depth along the offensive line or defensive line.
The bottom line is that general manager Tom Telesco is off to one of his best offseasons yet, and if he nails the draft Los Angeles could be set up for a lot of success in the 2020 regular season.
