Chargers Grab College TD-Leading WR in Fresh Mock Draft
The Los Angeles Chargers hold one of the more important picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sitting at No. 5, the Bolts have multiple options on how to use their pick, including potentially trading back to receive more draft capital.
With the draft coming up quickly, the idea of the Chargers moving back has gained more steam. Many people believe that the Minnesota Vikings are a prime candidate to trade with the Bolts, given that Minnesota holds two first-round picks this season.
In a new mock draft for NFL.com, writer Gennaro Filice has the Bolts moving back in a trade with the Vikings to land pick No. 11 and No. 23. Los Angeles grabs an offensive lineman with pick No. 11 but selected Brian Thomas Jr. out of LSU with pick No. 23.
"The new regime dumped Keenan Allen and Mike Williams for financial reasons. Now they have to replenish Justin Herbert’s receiving corps. There’s a good chance this big-bodied touchdown maker with 4.33 speed comes off the board in the top 20 picks. If not, Herbert’s cannon arm is made to target Thomas’ deep separation. This feels like a rich man’s version of the Chargers’ first-round pick from last year, Quentin Johnston."
With their need for wide receivers, Thomas Jr. would be a home-run pick for the Chargers. He led college football in touchdowns last season, showing his ability to get into the endzone. On the year, he finished with 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns for the Tigers.
Pairing him alongside last season's first round pick, Quentin Johnston could give the Bolts a nice, young core of receivers to work with. Quarterback Justin Herbert would have more weapons to throw too and the Bolts could try to be more competitive next season.
While staying at pick No. 5 is appealing to the Bolts, being able to nab both an offensive lineman and wide receiver in the first is better asset management. Los Angeles has been looking to build a sustained winner and this is the best way to go about it all.
