When the USC Trojans and Utah Utes meet up in Friday night’s Pac-12 Championship Game, several prospects will showcase their talents on a supersized stage, with a handful of NFL evaluators watching closely.
Let’s look at a few who could be on the Chargers’ radar.
TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah
The Chargers could address the tight end position next offseason, given Donald Parham’s lingering injury concerns and Tre’ McKitty hasn’t provided much value. Kincaid is a proven pass-catcher with good route-running skills, can produce after the catch, and has the toughness to win and secure crowded catch points. In addition, he is consistent as a blocker. Kincaid amassed 103 receptions for 1375 yards and 16 touchdowns in 25 career games.
CB Clark Phillips, Utah
Brandon Staley said last offseason that as long as he’s head coach, the Chargers will always be looking to upgrade the cornerback room. Should they look to address the positional room early, Phillips is a fine option. The name of Phillips’ game is instincts, excellent movement skills, physicality, and ball skills. Listed at 5-foot-9, Phillips plays bigger than his size. While he may be relegated to slot duties, he’s showcased the ability to play outside at a high level. In 2022, he only allowed 37 receptions on 64 targets for 430 yards, four touchdowns, and a 65.6 quarterback rating. He also amassed six interceptions, five passes defended, and two touchdowns.
DT Tuli Tuipulotu, USC
The Chargers upgraded the defensive tackle position with Sebastian Joseph-Day, Austin Johnson, and Otito Ogbonnina, all of whom are solid run defenders. But they are lacking interior defenders who can get to the quarterback. Tuipulotu is just that. Tuipulotu generated 49 pressures, 11 QB hits, two forced fumbles, and 13 sacks in 354 pass-rush snaps. The 6-foot-5 and 290-pounder has the versatility to line up across the line, having played 751 snaps at defensive end, 428 at the three-tech, and 177 at nose tackle.
WR Jordan Addison, USC
The Chargers need to look to add an explosive element to the offense next off-season. Addison could be just that. The former Biletnikoff winner, Addison, has put up 54 receptions for 810 yards and eight touchdowns. In 2021, he posted 1500 yards and 17 touchdowns at Pittsburgh. While undersized at 6-foot and 170 pounds, Addison has the speed, elite route running skills, elusiveness after the catch, and strong hands of an NFL receiver.
Other players to watch for
LT Braeden Daniels, Utah
EDGE Gabe Reid, Utah
RT Sataoa Laumea, Utah
CB Mekhi Blackmon, USC
OL Andrew Vorhees, USC
