Expert Predicts Chargers Miss Out on Top WR Prospects

Looks like Justin Herbert will have to find targets elsewhere.

The Los Angeles Chargers look to address one of their most interesting needs for this coming season in the upcoming 2023 draft. They are by no means suffering at the wide receiver position thanks to the likes of veteran options but with Justin Herbert about to sign an extension to remain their franchise quarterback, younger pieces are going to have to surround him.

Some of the top prospects in the draft are WR's and some of them have already been linked to and even had meetings with the Bolts' front office. An overwhelming amount of fans want a running back in the first round (Hello Bijan Robinson), but if Austin Ekeler does agree to stay in LA, another passing option makes a lot of sense.

Bleacher Report's Maurice Moton put together his predictions for some of the best WR's first landing spots in their career and he does not have two of the Chargers' biggest targets ending up in powder blue.

The laziest, and easiest, prospect profile I have done so far. Whether at Pitt or USC, Jordan Addison film points to a simple conclusion: Draft him.
At 21. 22. 25. Wherever.
A complete WR even at 6-0/175, Addison reminds me of Jahan Dotson bc he makes plays at every level. pic.twitter.com/mPwwEy3x2H

— All 22 Films (@All_22_NFL_Cuts) April 7, 2023

Jordan Addison would be a storybook-type pick for the Chargers 100%. He's a hometown kid and he has ties with LA's coaching staff so the fit would make a lot of sense. However, Moton has him going to the Giants with the 25th pick.

"Addison's size will raise concerns with some teams, though he's a great fit with the New York Giants, who relied on the short passing game with quarterback Daniel Jones last year. As an agile receiver with top-gear speed, Addison should be able to rack up a lot of yards after the catch on quick strikes in Big Blue's offense."

(Via Bleacher Report)

Then you have another top-tier choice in Zay Flowers. He was selected to the All-ACC team his final season at Boston College and he's been able to adapt to numerous environments during his collegiate career. Just like Addison, he is a bit undersized but his speed would Herbert a lot to work with. The Ravens will snag him just one pick below the Chargers in Moton's eyes.

"Regardless of what happens with Jackson's

contract situation

, the Ravens need help at wideout. Keep in mind that Rashod Bateman is recovering from

Lisfranc surgery

. New offensive coordinator Todd Monken could get a much-needed instant playmaker in Flowers at No. 22."

(Via Bleacher Report)

It will be quite interesting to see if the Chargers are not able to land either of these guys that they have been very high on during the pre-draft process. Even if they go to different teams, they will have great careers and LA will target other top options.