Survey results: Fans reveal thoughts on Chargers draft class

TL;DR

The Los Angeles Chargers added eight rookies during the 2026 NFL Draft, receiving a majority 'B' grade from fans. Key picks include pass rusher Akheem Mesidor and center Jake Slaughter, aimed at strengthening the offensive line and overall team depth.

Key points

Chargers added eight rookies in the 2026 NFL Draft
Fans graded the draft class with a majority 'B'
Key selections include Akheem Mesidor and Jake Slaughter
Focus on strengthening the offensive line and team depth
Thompson adds speed to the wide receiver group

Los Angeles ChargersAkheem MesidorJake SlaughterBrenen Thompson

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 25: Akheem Mesidor #DL51 of Miami poses for a portrait during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 25, 2026 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Los Angeles Chargers are on the other side of the 2026 NFL Draft and they have added eight rookies to the roster over the course of the three-day event. The team selected Miami Passer rusher Akheem Mesidor, Florida center Jake Slaughter, Mississippi State wide receiver Brenen Thompson, Memphis offensive tackle Travis Burke, Arizona safety Genesis Smith, South Carolina defensive tackle Nick Barrett, Boston College guard Logan Taylor and Oregon guard Alex Parkey. Fans voted on how they felt the Chargers did during the draft:

A majority of voters believed the Chargers deserved a “B” for their final draft grade, while nearly 80 percent of voters felt they deserved either an A or B. Overall, the Chargers filled their major needs on the offensive line by adding four potential bodyguards for quarterback Justin Herbert, who was one of the most sacked signal callers in the NFL last season. Slaughter will be the likeliest of the four to earn a starting spot at the center position. Burke, Taylor, and Harke will all contribute to the depth of the position group, which was devastated last season after and suffered injuries throughout the year. Thompson provides the blazing speed the Chargers have needed in the wide receiver room and there’s potential for him to take on a responsibility that was similar to what had with the while new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel was their head coach. As the first-round pick, Mesidor will have a chance to make an immediate impact from Day 1. There’s a good chance he will easily slide into ’s role for the defense, making him a top pass rusher next to and , who is entering his age-35 season. Smith and Barrett are two other Day 3 picks that will serve as depth both on defense and special teams, rounding out the 2026 draft class. .

Q&A

What grade did fans give the Chargers for their 2026 draft class?

Fans predominantly gave the Chargers a 'B' grade, with nearly 80% feeling they deserved either an A or B.

Who were the key players selected by the Chargers in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Chargers selected key players including Akheem Mesidor, Jake Slaughter, and Brenen Thompson to address major team needs.

How will the Chargers' draft picks impact Justin Herbert's performance?

The addition of offensive linemen like Jake Slaughter aims to protect Justin Herbert better, as he was one of the most sacked quarterbacks last season.