Ladd McConkey stolen from Chargers in 2024 NFL re-draft

The Los Angeles Chargers struck gold with their selection of Ladd McConkey in the 2024 NFL Draft. However, in another world, the rookie receiver would be on another coast.
Thomas Shea-Imagn Images
In this story:

The Los Angeles Chargers found success in Jim Harbaugh's first season with the franchise. The team finished 11-6 and earned a postseason berth.

The quickest way to begin a rebuild is to nail the first draft under a new regime. The Chargers did just that in 2024.

The franchise selected Joe Alt and Ladd McConkey, proving they had their finger on the pulse when it came to examining the 2024 class.

RELATED: Los Angeles Chargers chase former Top 3 pick in free agency projections

McConkey's rookie season was seen as quite a surprise, as the second-round pick burst on the scene with 82 receptions and 1,149 receiving yards.

However, what if the Chargers didn't get the opportunity to select McConkey? Bleacher Report's Gary Davenport reimagined the 2024 class, and McConkey was taken a lot higher.

According to Davenport, the Chargers rookie would have potentially gone 23rd overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jacksonville Jaguar
Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

"However, just because Ladd McConkey might not have the explosiveness Brian Thomas Jr. possesses doesn't mean he isn't an excellent pass catcher in his own right. McConkey wasted little time becoming Justin Herbert's top target in the Chargers' passing game—for the season McConkey tallied 82 catches for 1,149 yards and seven scores," stated Davenport.

"Even if you don't feel that McConkey is a talent on par with Thomas, there's no arguing that he'd be a boost for Trevor Lawrence and a Jaguars offense that can use all the skill-position help it can get."

Seeing McConkey in any other jersey would be a Chargers fan's nightmare after an incredible rookie season.

Ladd McConke
Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Enjoy free coverage of the Chargers from Los Angeles Chargers on SI

More Los Angeles Chargers News:

Chargers can free up more than $30M in cap space with two roster moves

Chargers, Khalil Mack extension update from insider offers good news

Los Angeles Chargers chase former Top 3 pick in free agency projections

Are there concerns regarding Jessie Minter’s Chargers defensive unit?

Chargers' vastly underrated contributor listed as a top bargain-bin free agent


Published