Chargers Beef Up Inside OL With Big Ten Center in NFL.com Mock Draft

The Los Angeles Chargers need all sorts of help across their roster as the NFL Draft inches closer. Los Angeles is expected to use the draft to plug some holes along the edges of the roster, given the level of talent in this year's draft class.

One area that the Bolts desperately need help in is within the offensive line. Protection of quarterback Justin Herbert was a problem last season, helping the Chargers finish the year with a lowly 5-12 record on the season.

In a new NFL.com mock draft, the Bolts address some problems within the middle of their offensive line by selecting center Tanor Bortolini out of the University of Wisconsin. Bortolini is taken in the mock draft with pick No. 69 in the third round.

Bortolini would instantly help bolster the center position for the Bolts, especially given that last year's starter Corey Linsley's status remains up in the air. Linsley told reporters at the end of the year that he would likely retire but he restructed his deal a few weeks back. This could be a way for the Bolts to protect themselves down the line.

The team did sign Bradley Bozeman to a one-year deal but drafting a center gives them long-term plans. Wisconsin normally produces strong offensive linemen and Bortolini looks to be the part. He is a good athlete, who tested very well. He ran a 4.94 40-yard dash, which was 2nd among offensive linemen.

His run-blocking skills popped on tape, something the Bolts want from their linemen. This pairing seems like a good match so don't be surprised if the Chargers do decide to grab some extra depth within their line during the draft.