The Chargers added six new members throughout the course of the weekend in the 2020 NFL draft. Following the event itself, they notched an additional 19 undrafted free agents who will all be fighting for a roster spot.
Los Angeles has had a great amount of success on bringing in hidden gems that went undrafted, including safety Adrian Phillips, tight end Antonio Gates and running back Austin Ekeler.
With that, here are four that could see their names on the 53-man roster when the 2020 season rolls around.
Joe Gaziano – DE – Northwestern
Every year, there’s always a defensive end that lights it up during training camp and preseason and makes the 53-man roster. That should be no different this year, especially because the future remains to be seen with Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram since their contracts are up after the 2020 season.
At 6-foot-4 and 281 pounds, Gaziano constantly makes his presence known at rushing the passer and defending the run.
He shows the ability to convert speed to power in the pass game. He has some heavy hands in the run game, setting a firm edge while fighting pressure. With a plus initial first step and big boy power, Gaziano is able to overwhelm offensive linemen and put them on their backs at times.
Gaziano also has some alignment versatility, possessing the profile to work inside, too. In 52 games at Northwestern, he recorded 153 tackles, including 48.5 tackles for loss, 30 sacks, 15 passes defensed and eight forced fumbles.
.@NUFBFamily DL Joe Gaziano remains criminally underrated.
Brian Lewerke knows all too well. pic.twitter.com/KzzNmx1sda
— Northwestern On BTN (@NUOnBTN) October 6, 2018