The Los Angeles Chargers have pressing needs for the 2026 NFL Draft, particularly on the offensive line and defensive line. Experts predict potential picks for the Chargers as they prepare for the draft.
Key points
Chargers need to reinforce offensive line after losing starters
Tyler Biadasz signed to replace retired Bradley Bozeman
Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane is a potential draft pick
Khalil Mack's future is uncertain as he considers retirement
Experts predict draft strategies for the Chargers at No. 22
Mentioned in this story
Nate Davis
Olaivavega IoaneLos Angeles ChargersWashington CommandersTyler Biadasz
They need to reinforce their offensive line after they lost all three of their interior starters from 2025 this offseason. They signed former Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz to replace the retired Bradley Bozeman, but questions still remain at both guard positions even after signing Cole Strange as a stopgap.
Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane could fill that void, but there's a good chance he'll be off the board by the time the Chargers pick at No. 22.
The defensive line is another area of concern, particularly as Khalil Mack just turned 35 two months ago and has contemplated retirement the last couple offseasons. And USA TODAY Sports' Nate Davis pointed out in his latest mock draft that the Chargers also need to get younger in the secondary.
On the eve of the NFL draft, here is what the experts think the Chargers will do with the No. 22 overall pick:
Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Q&A
What are the Los Angeles Chargers' biggest needs for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Chargers need to reinforce their offensive line and defensive line, particularly after losing all three interior starters from 2025.
Who are the potential draft picks for the Chargers at No. 22?
Experts suggest that Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane could be a target, though he may be off the board by the time the Chargers pick.
What is the status of Khalil Mack ahead of the NFL Draft?
Khalil Mack, who recently turned 35, has contemplated retirement, making the defensive line a concern for the Chargers.
How did the Chargers address their offensive line needs this offseason?
The Chargers signed center Tyler Biadasz to replace the retired Bradley Bozeman and added Cole Strange as a stopgap for the guard positions.
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USA TODAY Sports: "The Bolts have a few areas to address but certainly need to get younger and better on the back line – particularly when Derwin James is deployed as a nickel. A 6-foot-4, 200-pound DB with a penchant for big hits and finding the ball seems like a good fit for a team that also prizes physicality." — Nate Davis
CBS Sports: "The Los Angeles Chargers continue to patch up quarterback Justin Herbert's offensive line after he was the most hit and pressured quarterback of the 2025 NFL season. Chase Bisontis earned third-team All-SEC honors in his final season with Texas A&M. His skill set can fit any blocking scheme, something new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel will love." — Garrett Podell
