Los Angeles Chargers: First Round Targets In The 2022 NFL Draft

With a few needs and a wild card position to watch, who could the Los Angeles Chargers select in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft?

The Los Angeles Chargers have made some important moves this offseason. After faltering down the stretch, it was clear that the defense (more specifically the run defense) needed an overhaul. Before free agency began, the Chargers traded for Khalil Mack, sending a second-rounder and a sixth-rounder to the Bears. A Mack-Joey Bosa pairing on the edge will be a nightmare for opposing offensive lines and quarterbacks.

They stayed active early in the free agent period. The Chargers brought back Christian Covington to help in a multi-faceted way on the defensive line. The key additions along the defensive front in free agency were Sebastian Joseph-Day and Austin Johnson. Joseph-Day has familiarity with Brandon Staley from their time with the Rams, and the two additions give them help up front to get a poor run defense back on track.

The big fish signing was of course J.C. Jackson, who signed a five-year deal worth up to $82.5 million. The former Patriots corner was a dominant player in man coverage. It will be interesting to see how he handles a lot of off-coverage and man-match, but it’s well worth it when you’re in the AFC, more specifically the AFC West.

Los Angeles Chargers 2022 NFL Draft First-Round Targets

Now, attention turns to the 2022 NFL Draft, where the Los Angeles Chargers will look to iron out some holes. Offensive line needs some work, as does linebacker (losing Kyzir White is a big deal). Wide receiver could use another playmaker perhaps, and there are always wild cards. Let’s look at the Chargers first round targets.