The Los Angeles Chargers are coming off a 2022 season that ended with them blowing a massive lead against the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Wild Card Playoffs.
Los Angeles responded by firing offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi and replacing him with Kellen Moore. Finding more for Justin Herbert to work with on offense under Moore could be in the cards as the Chargers prepare for the 2023 NFL Draft.
Here, we provide you with our full seven round Chargers mock draft. But before we do that, let’s check in on what picks Los Angeles boasts in the upcoming event.
Los Angeles Chargers draft picks 2023
Here are the Chargers’ draft picks in the 2023 NFL Draft.
- Round 1 – 21st overall
- Round 2 – 54th overall
- Round 3 – 85th overall
- Round 4 – 125th overall
- Round 5 – 158th overall
- Round 6 – 200th overall
- Round 7 – 241st overall
Related: Los Angeles Chargers, Justin Herbert talking contract extension
Los Angeles Chargers draft needs 2023
Following NFL free agency, here are the Chargers’ draft needs for the 2023 NFL Draft.
- Running back
- Defensive line
- EDGE
- Tight end
- Safety
- Cornerback
Los Angeles Chargers mock draft
Sportsnaut used Pro Football Focus’ NFL Draft simulator, which provides the flexibility to trade and work through a variety of scenarios. Let’s dive into our Chargers mock draft.
First round, 21st overall: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
The Chargers find themselves in the midst of a stalemate with currrent starting running back Austin Ekeler, who has made it clear that he wants an extension or to be traded. Coming off his sixth season with Los Angeles, Ekeler has yet to record a 1,000-yard campaign on the ground. Sure he’s a dual-threat back, but an upgrade could be in the cards.
General manager Tom Telesco and Co. would be doing cartwheels if Robinson is available with the 21st pick in the draft. He’s our No. 3 overall prospect in the entire 2023 NFL Draft. The dude has that rare combination of speed and power. He’s a dual-threat. He can block. He can do everything. Imagine him lining up in the backfield with quarterback Justin Herbert. It just wouldn’t be fair. Despite Robinson’s status an elite prospect, playing running back could lead to a Day 1 fall.
Second round, 54th overall: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
The 6-foot-7, 264-pound Washington is a physically imposing tight end who will create major mismatches against linebackers in the passing game. He has the speed to combine with that physicality. In short, Washington is among the most exciting non-quarterback prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft.
With Los Angeles set to invest in Justin Herbert on a record-breaking long-term contract, adding another weapon for the young quarterback makes sense. Gerald Everett was solid in his first season with the Chargers. They also re-signed Donald Parham in free agency. However, adding someone of Washington’s upside would be a boon.
Related: Sportsnaut’s 2023 NFL mock draft
Third round, 85th overall: Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army
Speaking of making too much sense, finding a long-term replacement for Khalil Mack opposite Joey Bosa needs to be in the cards for Los Angeles. There has even been some rumors that Mack might not last long in Southern California due to his contract situation. Defensive-minded Chargers head coach Brandon Staley relies on pressure out on the edge. He needs more talent and depth.
Enter into the equation a player in Andre Carter who checks all of the boxes in Staley’s 3-4 scheme. He’s 6-foot-6 and 256 pounds. The former Army standout has the explosiveness to make an impact as a pass-rush specialist. His frame is elite. His pass-rush skill-set is pro ready. As someone who registered 14.5 sacks for Army back in 2021, the previous success is also there. This would be a home run pick.
Related: 2023 NFL Draft order
Full 7-round Los Angeles Chargers mock draft
- Round 1 – 21st overall: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
- Round 2 – 54th overall: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
- Round 3 – 85th overall: Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army
- Round 4 – 125th overall: Jammie Robinson, S, Florida State
- Round 5 – 158th overall: Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford
- Round 6 – 200th overall: Terell Smith, CB, Minnesota
- Round 7 – 241st overall: Byron Young, DT, Alabama
Let us know what you think of our 2023 Los Angeles Chargers mock draft.
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