The 2024 NFL draft is two months away, and we will supply you with in-depth coverage between now and then to inform you who the Chargers could be targeting when they’re on the clock.
With that being said, this will be the first installment of the three-round mock draft Thursday, where I will lay out different scenarios every week on how the first three rounds could play out for Los Angeles.
Round 1, No. 5, WR Malik Nabers, LSU
Even though the Chargers drafted Quentin Johnston this past year, they still lack an explosive element, which Nabers could provide. Also, Mike Williams could be a cap casualty, and Keenan Allen is not getting any younger.
Nabers, the 6-foot and 200-pound wideout, is a dynamic playmaker whose release, play speed and run-after-catch ability make him a home-run threat each time he touches the ball.
Nabers is coming off his most productive season, as he finished with 89 receptions for 1,569 yards (17.6 yards per catch) and 14 touchdowns. 17 of those catches went over 30 yards.
Round 2, No. 37, CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri
With defensive coordinator Jesse Minter being a defensive back guy, he will want studs in the secondary. Additionally, Michael Davis is set to hit the free agency market, so the Chargers will likely be looking for his replacement on the outside.
Rakestraw is a cornerback with great length and athleticism who possesses good speed and fluid hips, which allows him to match and stay in phase with receivers. Versus the run, he is an aggressive and willing tackler with good instincts.
Round 3, No. 69, C Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia
Corey Linsley is most likely hanging up his cleats as he is looking toward retirement due to a heart issue. This means the Chargers will be in the market for a starting center.
Van Pran has plenty of experience, with 44 career games over the last three seasons as the starter, allowing only one sack in 2,554 snaps. This past season, he won the Jacob Blocking Trophy, given annually to the SEC’s top offensive lineman.
At 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds, Van Pran possesses the experience, mean streak, play strength, and ability to sustain and finish blocks in the running game that should allow him to start at the next level early on in his pro career.
