Chargers Find Keenan Allen Replacement in Fresh Underdog Mock Draft
After the Los Angeles Chargers traded away star wide receiver Keenan Allen, the team was left with a lackluster wide-out room. The Bolts have undergone a complete transformation of their wide receivers this offseason but are planning to replenish themselves in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Los Angeles holds the fifth overall selection, giving them plenty of quality options to choose from. The Chargers could go with a different route, such as offensive lineman, but with their massive need at the wide receiver position, it would be tough to pass on the game-changing talent available.
In a new mock draft by Underdog, the Bolts find their Allen replacement, in the form of Malik Nabers out of LSU.
"Jim Harbaugh would love to build a wall around Justin Herbert. He's done just that every step of the way throughout his career, but the Chargers' draft class isn't done after the 5th overall pick. In fact, they have 8 other picks to find competition at center and right tackle. With consensus rankings and projected draft capital leaning slightly towards Nabers over OT1 Joe Alt, I'm going with the higher graded prospect (arguably at an even bigger position of need). Nabers can be the explosive slot next to outside WRs Josh Palmer and Quentin Johnston. To me, it makes more sense to just take Nabers than to move Alt from left to right tackle, especially with current RT Trey Pipkins starting the entire 2023 season at the spot. One more thing... former Charger Gabe Nabers was Justin Herbert's roommate. Gabe's nephew is none other than Mr. Malik Nabers. Love a #BrisketBoysNarrative dot connection. Nabers is +220 to be the 5th overall pick."
Nabers shined bright for the Tigers last season, posting 89 catches for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns. He was one of the main reasons that LSU had such an explosive offense last year and could provide the Bolts with a true No. 1 option at receiver.
Quarterback Justin Herbert needs someone like Nabers to throw the ball too and he would instantly become his favorite target. While the appeal to grab someone else or trade down might be there, Nabers is arguably the best receiver in this draft class.
