The Los Angeles Chargers are coming off of a 7-9 season. With another great few days from the franchise in the 2021 NFL Draft, they have set themselves up for a good run.
Although they did not make the playoffs last season, they have found their franchise quarterback in Justin Herbert. In his rookie season, he threw for over 4,000 yards and a rookie record of 36 total touchdowns. In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Chargers improved the protection around their franchise cornerstone, also making improvements on the defensive side of the ball.
3. Linebacker Chris Rumph II
In the 4th round of the NFL Draft, the Chargers took Chris Rumph II, who will be a solid pass rusher. With Joey Bosa on the other side, Rumph should be able to make an impact early in his career with his play wrecking ability.
His last lateral quickness allows him to allows him to get in the backfield quickly to tackle the running back or to sack the quarterback. While it may not seem like a big pick for the Chargers, it is as he will play well in their system. Bosa and Rumph II will look to create havoc on other quarterbacks for years to come.
2. Corner Asante Samuel Jr.
With their second round pick, Los Angeles selected Asante Samuel Jr., the son of former pro bowl cornerback. The Chargers desperately needed help in the defensive backfield, and they are hoping the projections for the talented corner translate to the NFL.
After trading away Desmond King II and releasing Casey Hayward to free agency, they needed to add a corner. Samuel Jr. is a talented corner, as he is able to tackle receivers with ease and crowd receivers at the line. He will see a speedy receiver in Tyreek Hill twice a season now and will have a quick awakening to how hard it is to cover him. Over the years, though, that matchup could develop into a great one.
1. Offensive Tackle Rashawn Slater
This was by far the best pick the Chargers made in the 2021 NFL Draft. With the first round pick they selected the best tackle in the class. Penei Sewell may have more potential but Slater will be a better day one player.
He plays with great awareness and is able to read every player and play. Slater plays well at the point of attack and that will make it easy for him to transition from the college level to the NFL. With Herbert at quarterback it was important to get him protection and they accomplished that with this pick. After also signing center Corey Linsley in free agency, the Chargers offensive line will be a big upgrade from this past season.
With two consecutive good drafts by the Los Angeles Chargers, the future is bright for the AFC franchise. Last year they drafted the offensive rookie of the year in Justin Herbert and this year they improved his protection and the defense. A solid free agency has also bolstered their roster and they are ready to compete.
Look for the Chargers to take a big jump this season.
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