Chargers 2021 mock draft: Surrounding Justin Herbert

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Nov 1, 2020; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) warms up before the game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /

Surrounding Justin Herbert with a 2021 Chargers mock draft.

The Los Angeles Chargers moved on from Philip Rivers in the 2020 offseason and used their top selection on Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert.

The initial expectation was that Herbert would sit for a bit behind veteran Tyrod Taylor, but Taylor suffered an injury that led to extensive missed time, paving the way for Herbert to take the job as his own.

Although there were plenty of people with high opinions of Herbert heading into the 2020 NFL Draft, it was tough to fathom that he would have a truly historic start to his career, throwing for over 250 yards in each of his first six starts with 15 touchdown passes in just six games.

Herbert’s production has been tremendous, but the Chargers have failed to finish and close games, and have been blowing leads like it’s their job to do so. That has, unfortunately, put a black eye over Herbert’s incredible and borderline unprecedented start.

With a 2-5 record heading into the midway point of the season, Chargers fans certainly have reason to be optimistic, but they also have one eye on the 2021 NFL Draft where they will be able to properly surround Herbert with talent.

That could mean doing so offensively or defensively, as Herbert seems to be able to spread the ball and make big plays with the Chargers’ current personnel on offense, though they could certainly look for upgrades.

The Chargers have one of the most extensive lists of big-name free agents in the NFL for 2021.

EDGE Melvin Ingram
TE Hunter Henry
C Mike Pouncey
LB Denzel Perryman
OL Dan Feeney
OL Forrest Lamp

Among others, the Chargers’ list of pending free agents includes a variety of key starters. With $34 million in projected cap space, they obviously have room to bring some of these key players back, but what areas will be left for the 2021 NFL Draft?

Let’s take a look at how the Chargers could use their top three picks in the 2021 NFL Draft right now to surround Herbert with the best young talent possible.

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