Defensive prospects Chargers could target with No. 13 pick in 2021 NFL draft

Chargers Wire’s Gavino Borquez lists six defenders that could be on Los Angeles’ radar.

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The Chargers are loaded with talent on the defensive side of the ball, but there are some players that are set to be free agents like edge defender Melvin Ingram and some that might have their best playing days behind them like cornerback Casey Hayward.

With that being said, let’s dive into some potential defensive targets for Los Angeles with pick No. 13.

EDGE Kwity Paye, Michigan

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Like I mentioned, Ingram is set to be a free agent this offseason and the question looms whether or not the Chargers will re-sign him. Given the fact that his contract year consisted of injuries and lack of production when he was on the field, the team might let him test the market. Therefore, Los Angeles could look to find a compliment to Joey Bosa if he walks.

Arguably one of the premier athletes at the position in this year’s class, Paye was featured in Bruce Feldman’s Freaks List. The 6-foot-2 and 270 pounder is an explosive pass rusher who’s powerful with his hands, making him impactful rushing the passer, as equally well as he defends the run.

Given that L.A. only produced 27 sacks during the regular season, Paye could provide another spark the team needs when pressuring quarterbacks. In just four games for the Wolverines, he posted 22 pressures. His alignment versatility would be coveted, too, since he possesses the ability to rush inside and out on obvious passing downs.