The Chargers, currently 7-6, are in the thick of fighting for a playoff spot.
While most fans’ attentions are still on the season and entirely tuned out from the offseason, I’m here to lay out what Los Angeles could do when it comes time to retool the roster.
That said, here is a three-round mock draft based on the positions that the Bolts should look to address.
Round 1, No. 16, TE Michael Myer, Notre Dame
I know what Charger fans are thinking when they see this: “We need a wide receiver with speed!” While that may be the case, Los Angeles is also missing a true No. 1 tight end. Mayer could solidify that and be an integral piece in the offense from the jump.
Mayer showcases focus and strong hands in contested situations, the ability to get upfield quickly after the catch, and the toughness to bring down in open space. Further, he does an excellent job of blocking in space and inline, something the Chargers have struggled to get from their tight ends.
Mayer set program marks at the position for receptions (180), yards (2,099) and touchdown receptions (18) throughout his collegiate career. He also owns the single-season tight end records for receptions (71 in 2021), yards (840 in 2021) and touchdowns (nine in 2022).
Michael Mayer was an absolute pain to tackle from his very first game.
This catch vs. Duke is as representative of Mayer's game and his attitude as any other he made, IMO. pic.twitter.com/lwmom8mas6
— Patrick Engel (@PatrickEngel_) December 7, 2022
Round 2, No. 47, EDGE Bralen Trice, Washington
Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack’s time on the field in their first year together was short-lived. Since Bosa has been out, the production from the edge defender group has been abysmal outside of Mack. With Bosa’s durability concerns and Mack aging, the Chargers must address the position.
Trice, the 6-foot-4 and 256-pounder, is an explosive, violent defender who brings tremendous burst and can convert speed to power while showing good counters to defeat blocks. Against the run, he has the functional strength to set firm edges and the ability to squeeze gaps.
How good is he at rushing the passer, you’re wondering? The sophomore leads the nation in pressures (64), pass-rush win rate (29%), and pressure rate (23.2%), according to Pro Football Focus.
Bralen Trice, EDGE, @UW_Football this season:
🟣 5 games
🟣 7 tackles for loss
🟣 4.5 sackspic.twitter.com/q6KHc4QVOc— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 6, 2022
Round 3, No. 79, WR Andrei Iosivas, Princeton
SPEED ALAS!
Iosivas, the 6-foot-3 and 205-pound wideout, is a track star from Hawaii. He timed 6.71 seconds in the 60-meter at the 2022 NCAA Indoor Championships. So how does that translate to the football field? A 4.22 40-yard dash time.
That speed shows on the field, as Iosivas immediately gets to top speed vertically and can outpace defenders in the open. He is a solid route runner, quickly getting in and out of breaks. He does a great job tracking deep passes and is elite above the rim in contested situations.
Iosivas led the Ivy League in receptions (66), receiving yards (943) and touchdown catches (seven). He ended his Princeton career ranked sixth all-time in receiving yards (1,909), 12th in receptions (125), and third in touchdown catches (16).
Iosivas will look to further improve his draft stock against some of the nation’s top cornerbacks in January at the Reese’s Senior Bowl next month.
The reason every NFL team is making Princeton a must-stop this fall: WR Andrei Iosivas (6027, 201).
All-American heptathlete (record 6.71 60-meters). Leads Ivy League with 28 catches, 408 yds, 3 TDs through 4 games in 2022. (Your guy can play, @RossTuckerNFL) pic.twitter.com/BJCYvDgHGb
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) October 11, 2022
