The 2023 NFL draft is creeping up, so we will supply you with in-depth coverage between now and then to inform you who the Chargers could target while they’re on the clock.
With that being said, this will be the first installment of the four-round mock draft Friday, where I will lay out different scenarios every week on how the first four rounds could play out for Los Angeles.
Round 1, No. 21, TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah
The Chargers have been searching for a complete tight end since losing Hunter Henry a few years ago. New offensive coordinator Kellen Moore is also expected to run more 12 personnel, which means the position is imperative in the system.
Kincaid is a prolific receiver with great hands who can win all over the field with his athleticism and play speed and can create yards after the catch, projecting as a passing game playmaker from Day 1. He’s also willing as a blocker.
Kincaid amassed 103 receptions for 1375 yards and 16 touchdowns in his four years as a starter for the Utes, with his best season coming in 2022. He racked up an impressive 890 yards on 70 catches. Additionally, Kincaid had the lowest drop rate percentage among TEs (2.8%).
Round 2, No. 54, OT Cody Mauch, North Dakota State
The Chargers may lose Trey Pipkins, who is set to be a free agent. Los Angeles could also release Matt Feiler to clear up cap space. If that’s the case, there will be two starting spots to fill along the offensive line. Jamaree Salyer is a candidate to fill one of them. That leaves one more void.
A versatile athlete at North Dakota State, Mauch played mainly left tackle with the Bison. While many believe he will become an interior player at the next level due to his shorter arms, he has the tools to play right tackle and can slide inside and play left guard for Los Angeles.
Overall, Mauch has great athletic ability, awareness, upper body strength, run-blocking ability and nastiness to contribute from Day 1. His 90.8 grade and 19 big-time blocks led all FCS offensive linemen this past season.
Round 3, No. 85, WR Trey Palmer, Nebraska
The Chargers cap off the offensive overload by injecting speed into their offense with the selection of Palmer.
Palmer is a dynamic playmaker whose blazing vertical speed makes him a threat. He was the fastest offensive player at the Senior Bowl and combine. He has great ball-tracking skills to win consistently deep over the middle of the field. Additionally, Palmer has plenty of special teams experience.
Palmer caught 71 passes and set a single-season record for the Cornhuskers with 1,043 yards. He also caught nine touchdown passes and averaged 14.7 yards per reception.
Round 4, No. 125, EDGE Byron Young, Tennessee
The Chargers kick off Day 3 by adding a pass rush presence behind Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. Familiarity plays a role in this selection, too. Defensive coordinator Derrick Ansley recruited Young and was his DC at Tennessee.
Young, a combine winner last weekend, posted an eye-popping 4.43 in the 40-yard dash. Additionally, he had a 38-inch vertical and led all edge defenders in the broad jump (11’0″).
That athleticism shows up on tape, as Young has a quick first-step explosion and speed when he pursues ball carriers or passers outside of the pocket. These traits are what Brandon Staley covets at the position.
