The Los Angeles Chargers have already undergone significant changes this offseason, with their next major decision looming early in the upcoming draft.
Marking the start of the Jim Harbaugh era, the team appointed the former Michigan head coach to lead them. Following his success with the Wolverines, Harbaugh returned to the NFL to replace Brandon Staley, who was dismissed before the conclusion of the 2023 season.
Further turning the page, the Chargers bid farewell to their top two wide receivers. They released Mike Williams as a cost-saving measure before the start of the new league year and later traded Keenan Allen, a cornerstone of the franchise, to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round pick.
Now, new general manager Joe Horitz faces the task of constructing a winning roster for Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert. Despite the disappointment of a 5-12 season, the early draft pick in the upcoming draft presents an opportunity.
With nine selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, including three in the top 70 and five in the top 110 following the Allen trade, the Chargers are well-equipped. However, none will carry more weight than the No. 5 overall selection, their highest pick since Joey Bosa was taken third overall in 2016.
The Chargers could potentially trade down from the fifth spot if another team desires to move up for a quarterback. Nevertheless, if they opt to stay put, there are numerous options to bolster Herbert’s offensive support.
Consider these five potential picks for the Chargers at No. 5:
1. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
– With a clear need at receiver, Harrison Jr., one of the top prospects in recent years, would be an ideal fit.
2. Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
– Nabers, known for his speed and explosiveness, could be a top-five pick and a strong alternative if Harrison Jr. is unavailable.
3. Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
– Odunze, with his impressive stats and comparisons to Keenan Allen, presents another enticing option at receiver.
4. Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
– Alternatively, bolstering the offensive line with Alt, who has proven his effectiveness at Notre Dame, could provide Herbert with valuable protection.
5. Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
– Opting for a tight end like Bowers, who brings significant pass-catching ability, could diversify the Chargers’ offensive arsenal, akin to the QB-TE connection seen in Kansas City.
These selections present various avenues for the Chargers to fortify their roster, addressing key areas of need as they prepare for the upcoming season.
