Mock Draft Monday: Chargers go WR, OT in latest two-round projection

The Chargers get help for quarterback Justin Herbert in the latest two-round mock draft created by Jordan Reid of The Draft Network.

The 2021 NFL Draft is completely out of sight, as the NFL regular season is only three weeks in.

Even though it’s way too early to predict where the Chargers will be picking and the direction they will go, it’s still okay to take a look at what they might do to prepare for the future.

With The Draft Network’s Jordan Reid’s two-round mock draft, here’s a glance at who might interest Los Angeles in next year’s draft.

No. 13, WR DeVonta Smith, Alabama

The Chargers have yet to establish the third wide receiver, and Mike Williams hasn’t been impactful thus far due to being banged up, which is why the team could look to give quarterback Justin Herbert another pass-catching option. Smith would be a strong addition to the offense. The Alabama product plays with a well-rounded route tree, excellent footwork, and brings the separation tactics to thrive at the next level.

With the keys of the franchise now turned over to Justin Herbert, it’s time for the team to heavily invest in the offensive line and to continue to provide him with even better weaponry on the outside. Mike Williams and Keenan Allen is an explosive combination, but the need for a third option at the position is evident. Smith brings another naturally gifted route-runner into the fold. With Smith, Williams, and Allen, Herbert now has one of the best trios in the league.

No. 45, OT Jackson Carman, Clemson

The Chargers are hoping to have a better offensive line than in previous seasons. While the unit showed promise the first two games, they were underwhelming in Sunday’s loss to the Panthers, and there are now durability concerns with free agent acquisitions, tackle Bryan Bulaga and guard Trai Turner. If Los Angeles sees that protection for Herbert is an absolute necessity, Carman should interest them. Carman is a player I enjoyed watching this summer. He has the strength, run blocking and athleticism to project as a starting tackle at the next level.