Chargers Wire’s Gavino Borquez updates you on the prospects he believes will receive attention from Los Angeles.
Day 1 of practices at the 2021 Reese’s Senior Bowl have officially come to an end.
On this gloomy and rainy day in Mobile, AL, there were a handful of NFL draft prospects who shined on the first day.
Here are six players that stood out who could be on the Chargers’ radar:
OT Dillon Radunz, North Dakota State
The Chargers could be in need of a blindside blocker, especially if the team lets Sam Tevi walk. Radunz, the 6-foot-5 and 304 pound tackle, came into this week known primarily for his run-blocking prowess. He showed that he was not only capable of clearing the way in the run game, but defending the edge in pass protection. Radunz currently projects as a second or third-round selection. If Los Angeles elects to pass up on a tackle in the first-round, Radunz could be available on Day 2.
OT D’Ante Smith, East Carolina
If the Chargers want a toolsy tackle with starter upside, Smith could be that guy. Coming in with with the longest arms at 35 2/8”, Smith did not let many bodies around him. He was very explosive off the snap, showing outstanding feet and a square base in pass protection. When he landed his hands on defenders, the rep was over.
OG Aaron Banks, Notre Dame
Forrest Lamp’s future remains to be seen, which means that the team could be looking to fill the left guard position. In my eyes, Banks was seen as a second-round pick, but he helped his case today at practice. A wall in pass protection and a mover in the run game, Banks was getting the job done up front with sheer power. He should start his professional career at guard, but he has previous experience at left tackle.
EDGE Quincy Roche, Miami
Regardless if Melvin Ingram is back next season or not, the Chargers need more juice in the pass-rush department. Day 2 in the draft is a sweet spot to address the need and someone like Roche would be the perfect player to play the outside linebacker role. Reminiscent of Buccaneers’ Shaq Barrett, Roche was consistently in the backfield, showing speed, flexibility and quick hands. He had a great rep against potential first-round tackle Alex Leatherwood.
EDGE Jordan Smith, UAB
If the Chargers miss out on Roche, Smith would be an excellent consolation prize. The 6-foot-5 and 255 pounder was fantastic off the edge, showing power in his hands, utilization of his long arms, explosion off the line of scrimmage and great agility when turning the corner. Like Roche, Smith had a standout rep against Leatherwood. Arguably one of the biggest risers in this year’s class, Smith has the chance to go before the end of the second day in the draft.
CB Thomas Graham, Oregon
Even if Michael Davis is re-signed, the Chargers need more talent in the cornerback room, especially since this will be the last year under contract for Casey Hayward and Chris Harris Jr. Prior to coming to Mobile, Graham led the nation in passes defensed. Graham was strong carrying receivers vertically and in man coverage. He displayed quick feet & hips and physicality at the line of scrimmage. He currently projects as a Day 3 selection, but he could be a steal when all is said and done.
