Chargers 3-round mock draft: L.A. trades down, lands difference-maker WR

The 2025 NFL draft is less than one week away, and the Los Angeles Chargers own the 22nd overall pick.

L.A. is coming off an 11-6 campaign, which was their first season under head coach Jim Harbaugh. They know they have a deep enough roster to make it back to the playoffs, but they need to add depth if they want to take their next step.

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That's why they trade down in this 3-round mock draft. It won't be popular, but the Chargers make a rare in-division trade, sending pick No. 22 to the Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for pick No. 31 and No. 95.

Round 1, Pick 31 (via Kansas City): Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State

Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Emeka Egbuka scores a touchdown against the Purdue Boilermakers. | Samantha Madar/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Albert Breer believes the Chargers will target Kenneth Grant, but adding another wide receiver is just as important. That's why they take Emeka Egbuka from Ohio State at No. 31. Egbuka would provide another capable starter across from Ladd McConkey, making a huge difference in their receivers corps.

Round 2, Pick 55: Oluwafemi Oladejo, EDGE, UCLA

UCLA EDGE Oluwafemi Oladejo participates in drills during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Oluwafemi Oladejo has seen his stock soar as of late, which is why Los Angeles has to take him in Round 2. Formerly a traditional linebacker, Oladejo moved to the edge for UCLA and recorded 4.5 sacks last year.

He's going to need time to develop, which the Chargers will be able to give him. If he reaches his ceiling, this could become a steal.

Round 3 , Pick 86: Deone Walker, DT, Kentucky

Kentucky Wildcats defensive tackle Deone Walker celebrates a fumble recovery against the Texas Longhorns | Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Once seen as one of the premier defensive tackles in this class, Deone Walker has seen his stock take a hit leading up to the draft. The Kentucky product is a massive 6-foot-7 and 331 pounds, but saw his production decline during his final season with the Wildcats.

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Walker reportedly played through a back injury, with Ian Rapoport saying he was dealing with a stress fracture. Now healthy, he could be a force in the middle of the Chargers' line.

Texas Longhorns tight end Gunnar Helm in action during the game between the Texas Longhorns and the Ohio State Buckeyes | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Round 3, Pick 95 (via Kansas City): Gunnar Helm, TE, Texas

Adding Tyler Conklin in free agency helps Los Angeles in 2025, but they need a young tight end to groom. Enter Gunnar Helm from Texas, who displayed excellent hands throughout his collegiate career.

During his final season with the Longhorns, Helm recorded 786 yards and seven touchdowns on 60 receptions.

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