Los Angeles Chargers: Five first-round 2021 NFL Draft targets

5. Kwity Paye, edge rusher, Michigan

While pick 13 may seem a little bit high for Michigan edge rusher Kwity Paye, edge rushers are typically one of the more highly sought-after positions, which may lead a team to take a chance on one that they really like.

While EDGE1 is still one of the biggest questions of the 2021 NFL Draft, many do believe that it will be Kwity Paye. Paye seems to be one of the most NFL-ready edge defenders in the draft and could really help a Brandon Staley lead defense.

The Los Angeles Chargers do already have talent on the edges of their defense with Joey Bosa and Uchenna Nwosu, but you can never have too many edge rushers. Staley was the outside linebackers coach for both the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos before becoming the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. Working under Vic Fangio, Staley worked with some of the best edge rushers in the league like Khalil Mack, Leonard Floyd, Von Miller and Bradley Chubb. Bosa, Nwosu and possible Paye could be next on the list.

Paye brings a lot to the table as an edge rusher. He has a quick first step, great hand usage and impressive bend around the edge. Bumping inside working against guards and standing up off the edge, Paye can fill multiple different roles in Staley’s defense.

Despite his perceived lack of size for an edge rusher, Paye’s impressive athleticism will have NFL teams ready to call his name on draft night. The potential that Paye has is clear, and he is ready to step into a pass rush rotation and make an immediate impact. There are many edge rushers in the 2021 NFL Draft that could be great NFL players, but Paye seems to be the favorite to be the first off the board, possibly to the Los Angeles Chargers.