ESPN Draft Expert Gives Chargers Uneven Haul in 7-Round Mock

Analyst's picks for Los Angeles include some questionable fits, but also address key needs

Mar. 31, 2026 at 2:06am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in bold blues, golds, and greys depicting the action of a football game, representing the Chargers' uneven draft haul in this 7-round simulation.A cubist interpretation of the Chargers' draft strategy captures the team's mix of hits and misses in this 7-round mock.Los Angeles Today

In a full 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft, ESPN's Matt Miller sends the Los Angeles Chargers on a rollercoaster ride with some puzzling selections early on, but also highlights a few prospects who could help fill the team's roster holes.

Why it matters

The Chargers have five picks in the upcoming draft and need to address several key positions, including edge rusher, defensive tackle, and the secondary. Miller's mock provides insight into how one prominent analyst sees the board stacking up and the types of players the Chargers could target.

The details

Miller kicks off the Chargers' draft by selecting Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell, who is an explosive pass rusher but struggles against the run. In the second round, the analyst has Los Angeles taking massive Ole Miss defensive tackle Zxavian Harris, a move that raises eyebrows given some higher-ranked players at greater positions of need were still available. The Chargers then add Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun and Baylor offensive lineman Jeremiah Wright in later rounds, providing depth but perhaps not ideal scheme fits.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Cashius Howell

A Texas A&M edge rusher who is an explosive pass rusher but struggles against the run.

Zxavian Harris

A 6'8", 330-lb defensive tackle from Ole Miss with long arms and pocket-pushing ability.

Davison Igbinosun

An Ohio State cornerback with the size and press-man skills the Chargers covet.

Jeremiah Wright

A massive and nasty Baylor offensive lineman who may not be the best fit for the Chargers' offensive scheme.

Cole Wisniewski

A big (6'4", 218 lbs) safety from Texas Tech with a high football IQ and good tackling ability.

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What’s next

The Chargers will look to address their roster needs through the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 24-26.

The takeaway

While Miller's mock draft provides an interesting look at how one analyst sees the board unfolding, the Chargers will need to carefully evaluate how each prospect fits their specific team needs and scheme when making their actual draft selections.