Under new leadership with head coach Jim Harbaugh at the helm, the Los Angeles Chargers are poised for a shift in their team philosophy, moving away from the flashy offense they’ve long been known for. Instead, they’re gearing up to prioritize a more grounded approach.
In a recent mock draft by Dane Brugler of The Athletic, it’s projected that the Chargers will maneuver in the draft, trading down from the 5th overall pick to the 9th, targeting Taliese Fuaga, an offensive tackle from Oregon State.
Brugler’s projection is rooted in Harbaugh’s known inclination towards bolstering the team’s trenches, aiming to fortify the rushing game as the core of their offensive strategy. Harbaugh, renowned for his tenure at Michigan, built a formidable program on the backbone of a robust running game and a resilient defense.
Last season, the Chargers struggled in the rushing department, ranking 25th in the NFL with an average of 96.9 yards per game. Conversely, their passing offense held a more respectable 13th position, averaging 232.8 yards per game.
Fuaga stands out as a versatile addition to the Chargers’ offensive line, capable of playing both guard and tackle positions. According to the latest draft rankings by B/R’s NFL Scouting Department, Fuaga is considered the 5th best interior lineman in this year’s draft class.
Described by Brugler as a force in the run game and a natural fit for the right tackle position, Fuaga’s potential pairing with All-Pro left tackle Rashawn Slater could prove formidable for the Chargers.
Following a disappointing 5-12 season, the Chargers are eager for a resurgence, and adding a top-tier offensive lineman like Fuaga appears to align with their ambitions for improvement.
