While the majority of the organization focuses on the general manager search and head coach Jim Harbaugh’s introductory press conference on Thursday, four members of the Chargers organization have traveled to Frisco, TX for the East-West Shrine Bowl.
Practices for the all-star event kicked off Saturday. Here are five players who stood out on the offensive side of the ball.
WR Cornelius Johnson, Michigan
Players who show traits lacking on their in-season tape should always be rewarded on lists like these, and Johnson displayed a much fuller skillset as a receiver than Michigan’s offense allowed him to during his college career. Used primarily as a vertical threat in the Wolverines’ system, Johnson showed ample separation ability on short and intermediate routes on Saturday while still stacking defensive backs on vertical routes the way scouts saw him do on a weekly basis in Ann Arbor.
Michigan WR Cornelius Johnson from this morning at Shrine practice — working vs. a 6-3, 200-lb corner here pic.twitter.com/hXy6qTemDI
— Nick Baumgardner (@nickbaumgardner) January 27, 2024
WR Malik Washington, Virginia
One of the more hyped players coming into the week, Washington proved many people, this outlet included, correct about the excitement. Working primarily out of the slot, the former Cavalier made life difficult for defensive backs all afternoon with a lightning-quick combination of release and footwork. Like Johnson, Washington also won at every level on Saturday, including an incredible tracking job over his opposite shoulder on a deep throw during one-on-ones.
#Virginia WR Malik Washington had several impressive reps today, including maybe the catch of the day.
Clean win at the snap and then shows off the body control and tracking skills to finish. pic.twitter.com/luZXyg903m
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) January 27, 2024
WR Jalen Coker, Holy Cross
Our offensive players to watch article published Friday included this quote about Holy Cross’ program leader in receiving yards and touchdowns:
“Coker profiles as the type of player who will only continue to rise as his exposure grows”.
Consider that exposure grown. Coker was the talk of the town on Saturday, showing both the ability to stack defensive backs vertically and win shallow routes through contact during the first practice session. While Washington and USC receiver Tahj Washington also had strong performances during Coker’s session, it was clear that the Holy Cross product was both the biggest surprise and biggest riser of Saturday’s event.
Jalen Coker is @HCrossFB program leader in receiving yards (2715) and touchdowns (31) earning historic production with his remarkable body control and ball skills
Stout perimeter presence who is a savvy multi level route runner #GoCrossGo https://t.co/9MsOQbSKQf pic.twitter.com/SL1Esh4j4e
— Shane Coughlin (@Shane__Coughlin) January 20, 2024
G Christian Mahogany, Boston College
Billed as the best offensive lineman in Frisco, Mahogany was nearly perfect during the team session of Saturday’s practice. One-on-ones were a touch rockier – Northern Iowa defensive tackle Khristian Boyd beat him on a push-pull move and Florida State lineman Fabien Lovett battled strongly with him. But overall, Mahogany showed the elite power traits he put down on film during his Eagles career and endeared himself to many evaluators in attendance.
.@BCFootball OG Christian Mahogany (73) paving the way for a big run up the middle on a combo block. Moved his man and walled off the LB. His power already standing out after one practice pic.twitter.com/W0KAzLjMkw
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) January 27, 2024
G Mason McCormick, South Dakota State
A six-year veteran of the Jackrabbits program, McCormick entered Saturday’s practice with 5th round feedback from league sources. And, while strong performances at all-star games have catapulted players into a significantly higher draft position before, it’s more common that these events serve as tiebreakers between players.
That could end up being a boon for the Chargers, who need depth along the interior of their offensive line. McCormick primarily played guard for South Dakota State but also has center flexibility, a notable distinction for an LA team that will need to replace Corey Linsley in some fashion. The Sioux Falls native has the physical, mean streak signature of the best offensive linemen, paired with a strong anchor and stronger hands.
In the best vs. best to finish today's practice, South Dakota State G/C Mason McCormick showed off his hand/anchor strength.
The shove and stare to finish… 💪 pic.twitter.com/CHAZvJgWww
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) January 27, 2024
