32 for 32: NFL Draft Predictions for the Chargers

As we carry on with our 32 for 32 series projecting the NFL Draft, we will now look at the Los Angeles Chargers - a team with major changes on the offensive side of the ball.

This series takes an in-depth look at each team and the potential picks that may be made in the upcoming draft. Based on each team's needs, I will project the first three selections and give fantasy football managers perspective on how this affects fantasy value. Whether it be a positional player or players on the defensive side of the ball, all selections made can help in some way when it comes to fantasy scoring.

As we have seen in recent memory, some rookies can enter this league and make an immediate impact. Based on the appropriate landing spot, this year's crop of prospects has the potential to create some very fantasy-friendly situations.

2019 Review

After a strong playoff run in 2018, the Chargers struggled mightily last year. Dealing with a holdout from Melvin Gordon and a steep decline in play from Philip Rivers, the offense was not the fantasy hotspot that we have been accustomed to seeing. Rivers was among the league leaders in turnover-worthy plays (20 INTs), and it certainly crippled this team at times.

While Keenan Allen continued to show why he is one of the league's top receivers (104 catches for 1,199 yards and six TDs), the big bright spot on this offense was Austin Ekeler. Finishing as a top-five RB in 2019 (1,550 total yards, 92 receptions, and 11 total TD), he proved what he could do as the focal point of the running attack. His strong play last season is one reason why the team has locked him up for the next four years.

Looking forward to the draft, the Chargers are on the verge of a rebuild. Deciding to part ways with the long-time starter in Rivers, this team will undoubtedly be in the market for a new franchise QB. The pieces are in place on this offense to make a quick rebound but health will be a big question for young players such as Mike Williams and Hunter Henry. If they can stay on the field for 16 games and adequate upgrades are made around them, the Chargers could once again be a team worth targeting in fantasy.

Los Angeles Chargers - 2020 Outlook

TEAM GRADES
Offense: 72.1 (19th)
Defense: 72.1 (17th)
Overall: 78.3 (19th)

TEAM NEEDS
QB, OT, CB

First Selection (1.06)

Justin Herbert, QB Oregon

Looking for a franchise signal-caller, the Chargers make the call to Herbert with their first selection. Fresh off a great showing at the NFL Combine, Herbert has solidified himself as one of the top three QBs in this class. Herbert is a big, talented QB that can fully read the field as he scans his progressions. He is comfortable as a passer whether it be in the pocket or on the move. His confidence in his blocking as he stands in the pocket allows him ample time to find the perfect read.

Herbert can make nearly every throw on the field and has a beautiful deep ball (a boost for Mike Williams). His touch can get away from him at times, but overall he plays with good consistency. He would step in and start immediately for this Chargers team and could be a viable option as a late QB2 in season-long leagues. But his real appeal will be in dynasty formats as he should eventually become a steady producer at a QB1 level in the NFL.

Second Selection (2.05)

Josh Jones, OT Houston

Jones will be an intriguing prospect at the tackle position. On the tape, he looks to be a little raw but throughout the 2019 season, he showed stark improvement in his game. He is long and athletic but will require coaching with his footwork in pass protection. His better skillset lies in his run blocking ability, something the Chargers will be looking to utilize more of as they are implementing a young QB. Young and coachable, Jones will become a key cog in the Chargers' offensive line for several years.

Third Selection (3.07)

Noah Igbinoghene, CB Auburn

An extremely raw prospect at the position, Igbinoghene has only played the position for two years now. But in that time he has shown a knack for the adaptation. He is strong and physical at the point of attack and has the explosiveness to close gaps in coverage. He prefers to play man coverage and jam opposing receivers. With the Chargers pass rush he could thrive in this defense as opposing QBs will have little time to allows receivers to get open against him. If his progression continues, he could become that second option that the team has been looking for to pair with Casey Heyward.

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