San Diego Chargers 2008 NFL Draft Needs
Written April 14, 2008 by Jack Jones
After a slow start to the 2007 season the Charger’s caught fire and won 8 of their last 9 games to finish the season at 11-5 and easily atop the AFC West. The west could be a little tougher in 2008, as the Broncos should return back to their winning ways, and who knows what to expect out of the Raiders and the spending spree they have went on this offseason. There isn’t a lot of major holes on this team, and with only one pick in the first 3 rounds the team will have to choose very wisely when they are on the clock with pick #27 in round 1. The biggest loss from last season could be LaDainian Tomlinson’s backup Michael Turner who was lost to free agency to the Atlanta Falcons. The only new face to the 2008 roster is the free agent signing of line backer Derek Smith from the 49ers. So while the team won’t be heard from to often early, here are our top 5 positions the team will need to target in this year’s draft.
1. Offensive Tackle
The team parted ways with former starter Shane Olivea here, and seems ready to hand over the job to Jeromey Clary who filled in nicely last season for Olivea. Its hard to say if the team will go after a backup here in round 1, but they will need to address this at some point on day 2. If they do go with a first round pick here they might be able to grab a guy like Boston College’s Gosder Cherilus if he is still on the board at pick 27.
2. Defensive Tackle
This won’t be a big issue in 2008, as the team is still solid with Pro Bowler Jamal Williams in the middle of their 3-4 scheme. The team could use a solid backup as Williams is getting up there in age, and starting to show signs of slowing down. The team could make a big pick here on draft day and take North Carolina’s Kentwan Balmer, who is likely the next best after LSU’s Glenn Dorsey and USC’s Sedrick Ellis.
3. Running Back
While there is no question that LT is going to be the main guy, the team is losing some valuable play that Turner provided with LT was taking a rest. Turner will likely emerge as a star in Atlanta, and the Chargers will be in need of a guy to help out the former MVP. Darren Sproles could be the answer, but we think they will pick up an insurance guy later in the draft.
4. Cornerback
The team found gold last season when second year pro Antonio Cromartie emerged into a pro bowl corner, and making a case for being one of the best in the league. Quentin Jammer was also solid here, but the team is lacking in a solid nickel guy here after the loss of Drayton Florence to free agency. They will likely wait till the second day to find a guy like Iowa’s Charles Godfrey or LSU Chevis Jackson.
5. Safety
This could actually be a bigger need than we have listed here. Last years starters Marlon McCree and Clinton Hart were okay, but showed some signs of weakness. McGree decided to pack up and head to the rival Broncos. Last year the team spent their second round pick on Utah’s Eric Weddle who the team believes has a bright future, and could be starting before the end of the 2008 season. If Weddle isn’t the answer they could spend a pick here in hopes of finding a sleeper in the later rounds.
Be sure to continue to check back as we will continue to be bringing you team-by-team draft articles. Also, be sure to check out our first round Mock Draft. Feel free to leave any comments you might have on the draft and each team’s draft needs in our comment box.