Chargers among teams that could make draft day trade
Chargers general manager Tom Telesco isn’t afraid to make a leap to get his guy on draft day, as seen last year when he jumped 14 spots to select linebacker Kenneth Murray.
With Telesco’s seat likely warm, he should have the same aggressive mindset to do anything to put Los Angeles back to their winning ways in this year’s draft, which includes another potential trade up.
This time for former offensive tackle Penei Sewell to reunite with quarterback Justin Herbert.
Sewell, who blocked for Herbert for two seasons, is an elite pass protector and physically imposing run-blocker, who would give the Bolts immediate and long-term stability at the left tackle position.
What would have to happen for a trade to brew?
The consensus believes that the first three teams picking – Jaguars, Jets and 49ers will be taking a quarterback. The Falcons remain to be seen, but they’re set at tackle with Jake Matthews and Kaleb McGary.
Then comes the team that would be the first likely destination spot for Sewell, with that being the Bengals. The team could be looking to add more protection for QB Joe Burrow. However, they could take a skill player, with Ja’Marr Chase and Kyle Pitts at the top of the list.
The Dolphins are up next at No. 6. They drafted Austin Jackson last year in the first-round and Robert Hunt in the following round. A skill player for QB Tua Tagovailoa seems likely. Miami likely wouldn’t want to trade after trading up from 12 to 6 with the Eagles.
That leaves the Lions as the team that Telesco should be on the phone with, should Sewell fall to No. 7. Los Angeles would need to get ahead of the Panthers – slated to pick right after, who are in need of a left tackle for QB Sam Darnold.
What would it take?
When looking at the trade values chart, L.A. would have to ship their first and second-round pick to move up six spots. While this seems like a fine trade, history shows that a future first-round pick might be needed to be thrown in.
While not picking in the first-round is never an ideal situation, ensuring that the team’s franchise quarterback is protected for the next decade is more than worth the sacrifice.
Sewell said he’s spoken to the team’s brass during the pre-draft process.
“I’ve been talking to the Chargers. … Conversations have been made,” said Sewell.
