Building around Justin Herbert is imperative for the Chargers to return to the playoffs and make a deeper run next season.
In ESPN’s Matt Miller’s latest two-round mock draft, that’s what he envisions Los Angeles doing.
With their first-round pick, L.A. selects Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty.
Chargers fans should rejoice if Jeanty — who rushed for 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns as a junior — is the pick, though. He is the ideal replacement for free agent J.K. Dobbins with his power, contact balance and ability to run away from defenses. Jeanty didn’t add a ton in the passing game in 2024 (23 catches), but he is tailor-made for Jim Harbaugh’s downhill power scheme.
Jeanty falling to No. 22 overall would be a dream scenario for the Chargers, as he’s been commonly projected to go in the top 20. Should he be available, it would be a no-brainer for Los Angeles. Jeanty is an elite back that could be a game-changer from Day 1.
Jeanty was a Heisman finalist this year after his record-breaking season for the Broncos. He finished with 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, with an average of seven yards per carry.
After bolstering the backfield in Round 1, the Bolts get Herbert a weapon in the passing game with LSU tight end Mason Taylor.
The Chargers should go heavy on offense to give quarterback Justin Herbert a better supporting cast. The son of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor, Mason Taylor had only six collegiate touchdowns but has the potential to be a major player in the red zone. He impressed at the Senior Bowl and can consistently win on option routes or post-up safeties with his 6-foot-5, 250-pound frame.
Taylor is an athletic tight end at 6-foot-5 and 255 pounds who can run a full route tree, is capable of running past linebackers, and is physical at the catch point as a receiver with strong hands. His blocking needs work, but he could play on passing downs early in his pro career.
Taylor finished as LSU’s career leader at tight end in receptions (129) and receiving yards (1,308).