The Chargers stacked deck with their rookie class and selected a few players who should contribute early in their pro careers.
NFL Media’s Chad Reuter released his projections for the 2024 All-Rookie Team and named offensive tackle Joe Alt and linebacker Junior Colson.
Here is what Reuter had to say about Alt:
First-year Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz decided to bolster the offensive line instead of picking a receiver in April’s first round, so look for the team to run J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards and rookie Kimani Vidal (whom I considered for this list) behind Alt. The move from left tackle to the right side should not be an issue for the son of former Pro Bowl lineman John Alt, as Joe Alt’s power, football IQ and agility will allow him to succeed.
Alt was selected with the No. 5 overall pick and will be the team’s starting right tackle. Despite never playing the position, he is a polished and physical lineman with great size/length, overall technique, and strength.
Alt’s services will benefit Justin Herbert, who has been one of the most pressured quarterbacks since entering the league in 2020. He will also improve the ground game, which hasn’t been efficient for over a decade.
Here is why Colson was recognized among the other top rookies:
It seemed like a given that Jim Harbaugh would draft at least one of his former Michigan standouts this year, so seeing Colson land with the Chargers was no surprise. He should be in the mix from Day 1, filling running lanes and chasing backs to the outside whether it’s a stretch play or a throw to the flat. I expect him to crack the 100-tackle mark this season.
Colson is a rangy and explosive linebacker whose coverage skills are high-quality NFL traits. He has the speed to stay in phase with tight ends and running backs and is also effective in the run game.
Colson will compete with Daiyan Henley to start next to Denzel Perryman, but given his familiarity with Jesse Minter’s defense, it would not be surprising and be productive in Year 1.