The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for the upcoming NFL Draft, scheduled for April 23-25, 2026, in Pittsburgh. With the 22nd overall pick, the team is considering selecting Kenyon Sadiq, a dynamic tight end from Oregon, to enhance their offensive capabilities. This decision comes as the Chargers aim to bolster their roster following a challenging season where quarterback Justin Herbert faced significant pressure due to injuries on the offensive line.
During the 2025 season, the Chargers achieved an impressive record of 11 wins, yet faltered in the AFC wild-card playoff game, marking a repeated early exit in the postseason. The team’s general manager, Joe Hortiz, and head coach, Jim Harbaugh, acknowledged that they did not always provide Herbert with the necessary support, particularly after the loss of key tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt to season-ending injuries. As both players are expected to return by September 2026, the Chargers still recognize the need for additional offensive line support.
A focus on offensive linemen seems logical, yet analysts suggest that the Chargers might opt for a playmaker like Sadiq instead. At 6 feet 3 inches and 245 pounds, Sadiq is celebrated for his versatility as both a blocker and a receiving threat. With the recent hiring of offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, the Chargers may shift their strategy, prioritizing a tight end who can complement Herbert’s existing targets.
Draft Predictions and Key Picks
As the draft approaches, projections are evolving. According to insights from various sources including Pro Football Focus and The Athletic, here is a potential outline of how the Chargers might approach their selections:
For the first round, analysts believe Sadiq could be a strong choice, moving the team away from a more traditional pick of an offensive lineman. Other candidates for the 22nd overall pick include offensive linemen such as Olaivabega Ioane from Penn State and Caleb Lomu from Utah, as well as defensive players like Zion Young and Colton Hood.
In the second round, with the 55th pick, the Chargers might target Chase Bisontis from Texas A&M, a highly regarded offensive lineman. His impressive size at 6 feet 5 inches and 315 pounds makes him an attractive option if he is still available. Other potential picks include wide receiver Chris Brazzell from Tennessee and center Sam Hecht from Kansas State.
For the third round, the Chargers could consider Keylan Rutledge from Georgia Tech, another offensive lineman at 6 feet 3 inches and 316 pounds. While some analysts suggest the possibility of selecting an outside linebacker, the need for offensive line support remains paramount.
In the fourth round, at the 123rd overall pick, the Chargers may look to bolster their defensive line with Gracen Halton from Oklahoma, who is known for his agility and could add depth to the team.
The Chargers do not have a fifth or seventh-round pick due to previous trades, which could influence their strategies.
Looking Ahead
As the draft approaches, the Chargers are also preparing for the free agency period beginning on March 11. Decisions made during this critical period could further shape their draft needs. With five picks in total, including three in the early rounds, the team has opportunities to significantly impact their roster.
The upcoming draft is a pivotal moment for the Chargers as they seek to reinforce their lineup and avoid another early playoff exit. Selecting a high-impact player like Kenyon Sadiq could be essential in providing Justin Herbert with the support he needs to excel in the upcoming season.
