Big 10 Defensive Line All-American Predicted as Chargers 2024 Draft Pick

This would be a great get for the Bolts next season.

As the seasons have gone by, the same sentiment across the game of football has remained the same. That would be that defense wins championships.

While the NFL has moved toward a more offensive style of game, teams still need their defense to be able to make big stops in games. Without it, there is very little chance of actually competing for a Super Bowl.

Luckily, the Los Angeles Chargers have some of the better players in the league on their defensive unit. Led by Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, and Derwin James, LA boasts one of the best units on paper.

However, the unit hasn’t been able to stay healthy, or they have underperformed up to this point. They have the look of a contender, but only time will tell. However, it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the future.

Despite the season not starting yet, mock drafts are all the rage. No matter what happens with the Chargers season, they should look to address any deficiencies on their defense.

In a recent mock draft done by Nick Baumgardner and Diante Lee of The Athletic, they have the Bolts taking a defensive lineman from the Big 10. Jer’Zhan Newton from Illinois is the pick, and he would instantly give them more size up front.

“The explosive 295-pound Newton finished No. 2 in pressures (59) among FBS defensive tackles last season, and he picked up 14 tackles for loss during his sophomore campaign, on a ferocious defense. Newton plays with a terrific motor and is violent at the point of attack. His hustle and ability to cause disruption would be great in Brandon Staley’s scheme.”

Per The Athletic

Entering his junior season, Newton was a monster in the Fighting Illini defense last season. Over 13 games, he put up 62 tackles, with 14 of them for loss. He also added in 5.5 sacks as well.

Newton would be a significant upgrade for the Chargers defensive line, and he would bring some additional pressure toward the quarterback. Pairing him alongside Bosa could give the Bolts a frightening scene for opposing offenses.

The 2024 Draft is a ways away, but the team must start to think about where they need to upgrade themselves. It is a never-ending cycle and one that dictates how successful they will be down the line.