NFL analyst has the Chargers doing something puzzling in the 2026 NFL Draft in their pursuit of protecting Justin Herbert

The Chargers make a puzzling choice in an NFL analyst’s recent 2026 NFL mock draft by taking a player who either adds to an already strong position group or adds major risk by changing his position.

Destin Adams — NFL News Writer
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Peter Schrager's new mock draft has the Chargers taking a tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft instead of a proven interior lineman.
Jan 11, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) is tackled by New England Patriots linebacker Elijah Ponder (91) during the fourth quarter in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. David Butler II-Imagn Images

The Los Angeles Chargers saw injuries on the offensive Iine prevent them from reaching their full potential as a team. The team has arguably the top young duo at tackle in the NFL. That being Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt. However both suffered season ending injuries in 2025. The offensive line is expected to be a top prioirty for the Chargers in the 2026 NFL Draft.

ESPN’s Peter Schrager has the team doing just that in his newest mock draft. The route he has them taking is a bit confusing though. As he has them taking natural tackle instead of an interior lineman.

Chargers select Clemson's Blake Miller in a recent mock draft
Dec 21, 2024; Austin, Texas, USA; Clemson Tigers offensive lineman Blake Miller (78) against the Texas Longhorns during the CFP National playoff first round at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Peter Schrager had the Chargers taking Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller in a new 2026 NFL mock draft

“Miller started every single game over his four years with Clemson (54 starts). And for a Chargers offensive line that was ravaged by injuries last season, taking the quintessential iron man of this tackle class at No. 22 makes sense. Miller could provide depth behind Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, and even slide inside to guard.” – Peter Schrager’s new 2026 NFL mock draft

Schrager has the Chargers selecting Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller. Scouts view Miller as one of the safest prospects with a real chance to become a first-round pick.He projects as a day one starter at right tackle, and would be incredible depth for Los Angeles if either of Slater or Alt go down again with an inujury.

The problem though is using a first round pick on a tackle seems like a mistake for the Chargers. Schrager mentions that Miller could move inside to guard which I guess is an option. Personally I think moving one of the safest tackle prospects in the class inside kinda defeats the purpose.

The Chargers would be better off targeting a player who can be a day one guard prospect. Adding tackle depth would defintely make sense but that can’t come in round one. Schrager is usually pretty on point with his mock drafts though. I do think the postive is Schrager seems to believe offensive line is the team’s focus for round one.

Protecting Justin Herbert needs to be their prioirty. He led them to double digit wins last season despite all of their injuries. Just imagine what he can do if the Chargers fix their offensive line.

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