The Chargers appear to have one of the top interior offensive linemen in this year’s draft class on their radar.
According to Chat Sport’s Tom Downey, Minnesota center John Michael Schmitz said he had a formal interview with Los Angeles.
Schmitz was one of three finalists for the Rimington Award and earned first-team AP All-American honors in 2022. Additionally, he’s a two-time, All-Big Ten performer.
Schmitz graded out as Pro Football Focus’ top run blocker of all the interior linemen this past season (92.6). He also had not allowed a sack in his career before 2022.
Schmitz is an exceptional run blocker, always looking to demolish defenders. He also has the lateral quickness to keep them locked up on drawn-out rush plays across the field.
Schmitz’s football IQ makes him highly effective as a pass protector, and his top-end strength provides a reliable anchor against holding rushers at bay.
The Chargers are set at the center position with Corey Linsley. But they could be remodeling the left guard spot this offseason, with Matt Feiler a potential cap casualty. Schmitz did say he could play all three interior spots.
Schmitz projects as a late Round 1-early Round 2 selection.