COSTA MESA, CA — The Los Angeles Chargers went offensive with their first three picks, but on the final day they selected one offensive player in tackle Sam Tevi and went defensive with their other three picks in safety Rayshawn Jenkins (fourth), cornerback Desmond King (fifth), and defensive end Isaac Rochell (seventh).
Round 1, pick 7
Mike Williams, WR, Clemson: This was a much needed area for the Chargers, but many expected them to go defensive like safety Malik Hooker or defensive end Jonathan Allen with the seventh overall pick. Williams is coming off a huge season in which he put up big numbers with 98 receptions, 1361 yards, and scored 11 touchdowns after coming off a broke freakin’ neck, as WWE star Kurt Angle would put it. Williams adds a red zone threat and insurance just in case receiver Keenan Allen happens to be injured again.
Grade: B+
Round 2, pick 6
Forrest Lamp, G, Western Kentucky: This was regarded by many to be the steal of the draft. This was a big necessity for the Chargers as their big money guard Orlando Franklin has underperformed in his two seasons and DJ Fluker was released earlier in the new year. Lamp stood out when WK played Alabama and he played well against both Tim Williams and Jonathan Allen. Head coach Anthony Lynn said via conference call that Lamp will be playing guard, but he loves how versatile he is.
Grade: A
Round 3, pick 7
Dan Feeney, G, Indiana: In the third round the Chargers surprised many again when they selected a second guard in the same day in Dan Feeney. He was a top guard in this draft and slipped because he missed four games this season with a concussion, but his talent speaks for itself. Feeney along with Lamp will be competing to be day one starters. Both said they want to keep quarterback Philip Rivers up right and open holes for Melvin Gordon.
Grade: A-
Round 4, Pick 6
Rayshawn Jenkins, S, Miami: This was the first defensive pick the Chargers used in the draft, which was surprising. GM Tom Telesco said he had to show defensive coordinator Gus Bradley some love too. Jenkins seems like he will be a rotational guy this season and will play special teams as well.
Grade: C
Round 5, Pick 7
Desmond King, CB, Iowa: This is probably the steal of the draft. King had a second round grade, but due to an injury he sustained at the end of the season there were concerns raised. He fell into the Chargers lap and they took advantage of it. King is a ball hawk. Lynn said that they would see during training camp where King fit better corner or safety because he can play both spots.
Grade: A
Round 6, Pick 6
Sam Tevi, T, Utah: This pick proved that the Chargers brass is serious about protecting their $84 million quarterback. Tevi started off as a defensive lineman at Utah, but was converted to offensive line his sophomore year. He excelled at right tackle and only missed two games due to a back injury. Last season right tackle Joe Barksdale underperformed after being paid, so the team got insurance in Tevi, who could develop into a very good tackle.
Grade: B
Round 7, Pick 7
Isaac Rochell, DT, Notre Dame:
When it comes to Rochell there are two reasons why he dropped in the draft, one is because his team was 4-8 and they had a horrible season. Number two is that not one thing stood out about him, usually players are good at pass rushing or against the run. He has a high motor and works hard, which is what the Chargers want in from their players. He will be a good rotational player for the team.
Grade: C The Bolts had a very strong draft and drafted some day one starters. Now it will be interesting to see how they perform in training camp when the pads come on.
*Fernando Ramirez contributed to this article.
