Chargers News: Potential Bolts OL Draftee Shined at Combine
The Los Angeles Chargers have many holes to fill on the roster before the 2024 season begins, and they will do so by adding young talent from the NFL Draft. One of the biggest holes the team will need to address is the offensive line.
Starting center Corey Linsley is set to retire, and available options like Trey Pipkins III and Rashawn Slater are reliable starters, the team will need to shore up its protection of Justin Herbert.
The Chargers are also exploring the chance to trade back in the draft to stack even more draft capital. Should they do so, they could still find a quality OL like Washington's Troy Fautanu.
Fautanu managed to impress at the NFL Combine.
"Fautanu impressed when he ran (1.71-second 10-yard split, 5.01 40-yard dash) and jumped (32 1/2-inch vertical), but he also showed his excellent movement skills in the position workout. The left tackle's lateral movement and low pad level shined during pass protection drills. His explosion out of his stance also impressed, and his quick hands hit pads in concert with his footwork. Some teams might try to move him inside because of his height (6-foot-3 3/4) but he has the length (34 1/2-inch arm) to be effective outside. He should lock up a top-25 draft spot with his combine performance."
Chad Reuter of NFL.com ranked the OLs that showcased their skills at the NFL Combine, and Fautanu impressed with his ability to showcase good lateral movement and pad work.
The Chargers need OL talent that can move quickly and powerfully to open up running lanes for the new and improved run game, along with protecting Herbert.
It sounds like Fautanu will be a viable option for the team, should they choose to trade back.
