The Chargers continue to build on the offensive line, taking former Georgia lineman Jamaree Salyer with the No. 195 overall selection.
Salyer started 20 games at left tackle, two at right tackle, and one at left guard during his time as a Bulldog. While he didn’t start any games at center or right guard, he has also worked at those positions in a reserve role in Athens. He was credited with just two hurries allowed with no sacks given up.
The former five-star recruit who cut his teeth against Aidan Hutchinson at the high school Army Bowl will likely be a guard in the NFL due to average arm length and mobility that will preclude him from sticking on the perimeter long term. He’s a balanced player who has a finishing mentality as a run blocker and plus awareness as a pass protector. With a certification in combo blocks from Georgia’s power-heavy run game, Salyer profiles as a potential starter at guard.
To be honest, I have no idea why Salyer made it this far. I had him graded as a Day 2 pick who could compete for a starting job as a rookie. As a Charger, he’ll be a quality depth piece behind the core three of Matt Feiler, Corey Linsley, and first-round pick Zion Johnson. With experience at all five offensive line positions, Salyer will be an invaluable sixth offensive lineman as a rookie. Beyond that, it’s possible that he grows into a starter at guard with the flexibility to slide to tackle in-game if an injury occurs.
It’s also possible that if Salyer comes along quicker than expected that he claims the left guard spot, with Feiler kicking to right tackle, a position LA has continued to neglect in the draft. Brandon Staley and Tom Telesco were adamant that Feiler will stay at guard after the Zion Johnson selection, but playing the best five linemen on the team is the most important. With the versatility Salyer brings to the table, all options are open.
