2021 NFL draft grades: Analysts give Chargers’ haul highest praise

The Los Angeles Chargers 2021 NFL draft class received nothing but great remarks.

The 2021 NFL draft is officially in the books.

The Chargers got better on both sides of the ball, all while bringing in players that upgrade the special teams department.

In the eyes of national writers and analysts, this was by far one of Tom Telesco’s best haul since he has held the role of general manager.

A look at the experts’ grades and overall review of Los Angeles’ selections:

NFL Media’s Chad Reuter: A

“Slater only lasted to No. 13 overall because of his average length for the tackle position. But he’ll more than overcome that, and find success in the NFL, because of his athleticism and toughness. Samuel’s slight frame (5-10, 180) also cost him draft position, but again GM Tom Telesco found value by selecting the future starter midway through Round 2. Palmer and McKitty give Justin Herbert needed depth at pass catcher and will help negate some of the production lost by Hunter Henry’s exit in free agency.

Adding Rumph’s Gumby-like bend off the edge should bolster the Chargers’ pass rush, while James’ positional versatility should give the team’s O-line more flexibility. Rountree looked like a third-round pick at times at Missouri; he could be a Justin Jackson-type value pick for the Bolts.”

Yahoo Sports’ Nick Goss: A-

“The Chargers got a left tackle for franchise QB Justin Herbert with the selection of Northwestern offensive lineman Rashawn Slater in the first round. They also added a talented wide receiver for Herbert’s passing attack in Tennessee star Josh Palmer.

One of the best picks in the second round was Los Angeles drafting Florida State cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. at No. 47 overall. He has great instincts and athleticism, just like his father.”

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.: A

The Chargers’ top two needs headed into this draft were clearly defined: a left tackle to protect Justin Herbert and a starting-caliber corner. General manager Tom Telesco hit both of those early, and he didn’t have to reach.

Rashawn Slater (13) was a popular fit for mock drafts, and there were some teams that had a higher grade on him than Penei Sewell. He has the potential to be an All-Pro left tackle. Now, with the additions in free agency of Corey Linsley and Matt Feiler, this offensive line is suddenly one of the league’s 10 best. Herbert was pressured a whopping 217 times last season. I said it on Thursday — this pick is a dream come true for the Chargers. I thought cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. (47) would go earlier than he did, but he could play in the slot or outside as a rookie. L.A. upgraded with both of these picks.

Wideout Josh Palmer (77) averaged 21 yards per catch in 2018, and his numbers would have been better if he had consistent quarterbacks throwing to him. Tight end Tre’ McKitty (97) wasn’t used much as a receiver in his lone season at Georgia, but he can block a little bit. Versatile linebacker Chris Rumph II (118) was one of my top available prospects for Day 3, and I’m curious where he’ll fit in Brandon Staley’s defense. Larry Rountree III (198), my eighth-ranked running back, put up 3,720 career rushing yards at Missouri.

Again, Telesco didn’t reach to fill two big voids, and so this class is one of the best of the year. This team absolutely got better.

USA Today’s Nate Davis: A-

“It fell pretty nicely to the Bolts, but their top two choices, OT Rashawn Slater in Round 1 and CB Asante Samuel Jr. in Round 2, have a chance to be franchise cornerstones – Slater the bodyguard this offense needed to get for offensive rookie of the year Justin Herbert. Pass rusher Chris Rumph II (Round 4) could blossom under new coach Brandon Staley.”

The Ringer’s Danny Kelly: A-

“I love what the Chargers did this weekend, especially in the early rounds. Los Angeles nabbed its long-term solution at left tackle, offering reliable protection for second-year quarterback Justin Herbert, and added depth and playmaking talent to an already strong defensive backs group. Plus, I really like Palmer, who offers big-play potential and has the skill set to be the eventual replacement for Mike Williams, who will play this season on his fifth-year option.”

Draft Wire’s Luke Easterling: B+

“After their first two picks, anything else was just gravy. Rashawn Slater was a steal outside the top 10, and gives Justin Herbert the franchise left tackle he needs. Asante Samuel Jr. was another bargain, and filled their biggest need on defense. Josh Palmer and Tre’ McKitty both bring tons of athleticism and potential to the passing game, while Chris Rumph II has tons of upside as a pass rusher. Brenden Jaimes and Larry Rountree II were their best picks on Day 3.”