The Los Angeles Chargers were long since thought of as one of the major players to grab an edge defender early in the 2022 NFL Draft. However, after acquiring Khalil Mack from the Chicago Bears for a second-round pick this year, we can all but eliminate them from that discussion. The Chargers still have a bevy of draft picks in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Here’s how the Chargers’ draft stands after acquiring Mack, and who they could look to target in the 2022 NFL Draft.
Los Angeles Chargers draft picks in 2022
- Round 1 | Pick 17
Zion Johnson, G, Boston College - Round 3 | Pick 79
JT Woods, S, Baylor - Round 4 | Pick 123
Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M - Round 5 | Pick 160
Otito Ogbonnia, DT, UCLA - Round 6 | Pick 195
Jamaree Salyer, OT, Georgia - Round 6 | Pick 214
Ja’Sir Taylor, CB, Wake Forest - Round 7 | Pick 236
Deane Leonard, CB, Ole Miss - Round 7 | Pick 260
Zander Horvath, FB, Purdue
The Chargers sent their second-round selection in the 2022 NFL Draft (pick No. 48), as well as a sixth-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, to the Bears. In return, they secured the services of Mack, a Pro Bowl edge rusher and one of the top players at the position.
Los Angeles now pairs Mack with Joey Bosa to dramatically improve their pass-rushing prowess. In fact, that combo is firmly in the running for the top edge-rushing duo in the league. The bevy of compensatory picks come in for a variety of reasons, most projected to be at the tail-end of Round 7.
The Chargers made a smart play, picking up the top offensive guard prospect and a player of need in Zion Johnson with the No. 17 overall pick.
Los Angeles Chargers’ 2022 NFL Draft team needs
Prior to acquiring Mack, the Chargers had a clear list of needs. They needed to improve their defensive line. It’s apparent they understood that as well, and they now have fewer needs by securing Mack. The Chargers could still look to bolster depth at the position, but after grabbing Mack, their team draft needs to move around a bit.
Defensive tackle still reigns supreme, and with their pick at No. 17, they should be able to grab one of the top players at the position. Tight end remains a big need as well as offensive guard. Cornerback slides up while we add linebacker to the back end of their needs:
- Defensive Tackle
- Tight End
- Offensive Guard
- Cornerback
- Linebacker