NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah released his first mock draft a couple days ago, where he gave the Los Angeles Chargers former USC offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker with the No. 13 overall selection.
Nearly a week later, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. put out his first mock draft, but he elected to go with a different player at the same position. Kiper gave the Bolts former Virginia Tech offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw with their first-round pick.
With four straight wins to end the season, the Chargers likely moved themselves out of the Penei Sewell sweepstakes, but Darrisaw is a great consolation prize. He had a phenomenal 2020 season and could be quarterback Justin Herbert’s long-term blindside protector. Offensive line is one of L.A.’s top needs of the offseason, and it could add to the position in free agency and in the draft. New coach Brandon Staley will get back safety Derwin James from injury, but his defensive line needs a boost, too. Keep an eye on risers between now and April.
Darrisaw, the 6-foot-5 and 315 pounder, was a three-year starter with 34 starts in college, all of which came at left tackle. Allowing only six total pressures on 267 snaps in pass protection, he has good length, demonstrates good timing and quickness with his punches, and has plus grip strength.
In the run game is where Darrisaw is at his best, flashing good quickness moving forward. He shows solid ability to reach and has the athletic traits and movement skills when getting to the second level to pave the way for ball carriers.
Even if Sam Tevi is re-signed, Darrisaw is a major upgrade at the position. He has the length and athleticism to thrive at left tackle and even offers versatility to play inside, given his physicality and mobility. The Bolts could utilize that, if need be.