Chargers Urged to Be Aggressive in NFL Draft for Justin Herbert

Analyst says Bolts should prioritize adding another playmaker at receiver over offensive line

Apr. 9, 2026 at 11:36pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting an NFL draft scene, with sharp planes of color and shape representing the strategic decisions facing the Chargers as they look to bolster their roster around quarterback Justin Herbert.An abstract, cubist-inspired illustration captures the strategic decisions facing the Chargers as they look to build around star QB Justin Herbert in the upcoming NFL Draft.Los Angeles Today

NFL.com's Nick Shook believes the Los Angeles Chargers should focus on adding another top receiving threat for quarterback Justin Herbert in the upcoming NFL Draft, rather than prioritizing the offensive line. Shook argues that with the right receiving corps, Herbert could maximize the Chargers' offense, even if the line doesn't improve dramatically from last season.

Why it matters

The Chargers have a talented young quarterback in Herbert, but he was sacked 54 times last season and lacks a clear No. 1 receiving option. Improving the supporting cast around Herbert is crucial for the team to take the next step and become a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

The details

The Chargers have been relatively quiet in free agency this offseason, leaving some holes on their roster. While the offensive line is a major need after last season's struggles, analyst Nick Shook believes the team should prioritize adding another playmaker at wide receiver to give Herbert more options in the passing game. The Chargers currently have a solid receiving trio of Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey and Tre Harris, but Shook thinks they could use one more dynamic threat to maximize Herbert's abilities, especially if the line can hold up better in 2023.

  • The 2023 NFL Draft will take place from April 27-29.

The players

Justin Herbert

The Chargers' star quarterback who was sacked 54 times last season and needs more weapons in the passing game.

Quentin Johnston

One of the Chargers' top wide receivers, part of a solid receiving trio.

Ladd McConkey

One of the Chargers' top wide receivers, part of a solid receiving trio.

Tre Harris

One of the Chargers' top wide receivers, part of a solid receiving trio.

Nick Shook

An NFL.com analyst who believes the Chargers should prioritize adding another top receiving threat for Justin Herbert in the draft.

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What they’re saying

“The Chargers have a solid starting trio of Quentin Johnston, Ladd McConkey and Tre Harris, but I think there's room for another playmaker in this group. If the offensive line can hold up (unlike last year), Justin Herbert could maximize a new addition in the receiving corps.”

— Nick Shook, NFL.com Analyst

What’s next

The Chargers will look to address their roster needs through the 2023 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 27-29. They will have the opportunity to add top receiving talent and offensive line help to support quarterback Justin Herbert.

The takeaway

The Chargers have a talented young quarterback in Justin Herbert, but need to surround him with more playmakers in the passing game. While the offensive line is also a major need, adding another dynamic receiving threat could help Herbert maximize the offense, even if the line doesn't improve dramatically from last season.