Chargers Mock Draft: Jim Harbaugh adds a game-changing pass catcher

The Chargers lured Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh away from the university with a lucrative contract offer. Now, Harbaugh embarks on building a contender around ascending quarterback Justin Herbert.

Harbaugh arrives in Los Angeles with lofty expectations. In four NFL seasons, Herbert has only played in one postseason game: The infamous 27-point playoff collapse vs. the Jaguars.

Herbert has broken several records already, but the roster around him is lacking in several areas. It’s up to the new regime to put the right pieces around their star quarterback to contend.

It won’t be easy, as the team lacks salary cap space and will likely have to cut or trade away multiple starters, including wide receiver Mike Williams and veteran pass rusher Khalil Mack.

Chargers Mock Draft: Brock Bowers to the rescue

Today’s seven-round mock draft sees Harbaugh and Co. add premier talent to both sides of the ball.

Round 1, Pick 5 — Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

The Chargers have an offensive weaponry group of aging, often-injured, and downright unproductive players. Getting a young, game-changing weapon for Justin Herbert should be a priority.

Brock Bowers fits the bill, as the Georgia tight end is an all-around threat, serving as an inline blocker and lining up as a route runner on more than half of his snaps.

Bowers is a rare prospect with very few flaws on tape. He would quickly become a go-to option for Herbert, giving him a reliable target at tight end.

Round 2, Pick 37 — Graham Barton, OL, Duke

The offensive line is another area that could use upgrades for the Chargers. And Harbaugh loves to build from the inside out, as fans will remember from his previous NFL stint with the 49ers.

Graham Barton presents Harbaugh with an experienced blocker who can perform at any of the five positions on the offensive line. He’s an instant starter.

Round 3, Pick 69 — Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

Speaking of Harbaugh, he brings a Wolverine with him from Michigan to the sunny atmosphere in Southern California. Mike Sainristil is a tone-setter on defense, helping lead the championship-winning Michigan unit in 2023.

Sainristil’s strength and instincts suit him best as a slot defender. He can start immediately at nickel cornerback for the Bolts.

Round 4, Pick 106 — Audric Estime, RB, Notre Dame

Los Angeles will likely let running back Austin Ekeler depart in free agency after a disappointing 2023 campaign. Audric Estime is Ekeler’s replacement, as the Notre Dame product is bigger, stronger, and a better runner between the tackles.

Round 5, Pick 139 — Jacob Cowing, WR, Arizona

Jacob Cowing is a slot specialist who excels at creating space downfield. He’s crafty with the ball in tow and will have a role in the offense as a rookie.

Round 6, Pick 183 — Zion Tupuola-Fetui, EDGE, Washington

If the Chargers trade pass rusher Joey Bosa this off-season, expect the front office to select a replacement much earlier in the 2024 NFL Draft. Enter Zion Tupuola-Fetui.

The Washington defender is an athletic marvel still refining his technique. But a year of Bosa’s guidance and some NFL coaching could iron out those rough edges.

Round 7, Pick 223 — Jaylen Harrell, EDGE, Michigan

Another Michigan alum joins Harbaugh, as rotational defensive lineman Jaylen Harrell will compete for snaps on defense and special teams in year one.

Round 7, Pick 256 — Fabian Lovett, DL, Florida State

The mock draft closes with another defender in Florida State’s Fabian Lovett. The veteran has tons of experience that should help him earn a spot on the special teams unit immediately.

Check back for our seven-round mock draft for the New York Giants. In the meantime, check out our previous mock drafts for the Bears, Commanders, Patriots, Cardinals, and Falcons.