While he he plays with low-burn energy at times, Darrisaw's tape can be like watching a young Russell Okung, and that is exactly what the Chargers need.
It should come as no surprise that the Chargers would be taking an offensive tackle with the No. 13 pick. The question is which one they prefer. Even though the top two are gone in this scenario, the first round has some quality depth at the position. In the second tier of tackles, the most complete is probably Jenkins. He's good on the edge and can really take care of speed rushers.
The Chargers got an incredibly promising performance from rookie quarterback Justin Herbert in 2020, and adding a mismatch-creating playmaker like Pitts could help Herbert take his game to the next level. Whether the team brings back Hunter Henry or not, Pitts could line up and beat coverage from anywhere in the formation.
Whether he's deployed at guard or tackle, where the Trojans used him in 2020, Vera-Tucker solves a problem for the Bolts, who better start adding safeguards around QB Justin Herbert.
With four straight wins to end the season, the Chargers likely moved themselves out of the Penei Sewell sweepstakes, but Darrisaw is a great consolation prize. He had a phenomenal 2020 season and could be quarterback Justin Herbert's long-term blindside protector. Offensive line is one of L.A.'s top needs of the offseason, and it could add to the position in free agency and in the draft. New coach Brandon Staley will get back safety Derwin James from injury, but his defensive line needs a boost, too. Keep an eye on risers between now and April.
Vera-Tucker is one of the cleanest players in the draft. He's played at a high level at both guard and tackle. The Chargers must address the offensive line this offseason.
The Chargers hit a home run with quarterback Justin Herbert in last year's draft. The next step is making sure he's protected. Slater might be better served as a guard because of his size, but he allowed only five pressures at left tackle in 2019, according to Pro Football Focus.
