Chargers bolster their defense by improving one of their biggest weaknesses in a new 2026 NFL mock draft
The Chargers take a page out of the Super Bowl champion Seahawks’ blueprint in a new 2026 NFL mock draft.
The Los Angeles Chargers battled through multiple major injuries and still managed to win 11 games.
Sadly, their season ultimately ended in the wildcard round after a loss to the eventual AFC champions, the New England Patriots. Their offensive line will be the most talked-about area of weakness this offseason, but they will also have to address other concerns.
One of which is the interior of their defensive line. Luckily for them, there are multiple notable options they could consider in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. A new A to Z Sports mock draft has them landing arguably the top defensive tackle prospect in the class.
Chargers land Clemson star DT Peter Woods in a new 2026 NFL mock draft
“Peter Woods had a tough year, like most every Clemson player did in their worst season of the past decade. However, Woods still possesses first-round traits for a defensive tackle. He’s an above-average pass rusher as a defensive tackle, but possesses the flexibility and range to play any position up front. The Chargers love their versatile defensive front weapons, and coach Jim Harbaugh loves players like this.” – Travis May, A to Z Sports NFL Draft analyst
Following the 2025 NFL Draft, Clemson’s Peter Woods was viewed as a potential top-five prospect for 2026. Some even thought he was in the discussion to be the number one overall pick. Unfortunately, the 2025 season didn’t go to plan for Woods or for the Clemson Tigers as a whole.
Woods’ talent is still pretty clear to see, though. He can be a plus against the pass and the run, and projects as a day one three-down starter. He can improve the Chargers’ interior defensive line right away, but more importantly, the long-term outlook.
If the Chargers made this happen, I would compare it to the Seattle Seahawks landing Byron Murphy II in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. DT may not be looked at as a premium position, but over the past few years, the value of having game wreckers on the interior of the defensive line has skyrocketed.
Peter Woods’ college stats
- 2023: 12 games, 26 total tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss
- 2024:11 games, 28 total tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 3.0 sacks
- 2025: 12 games, 30 total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks
Los Angeles Chargers News
Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh makes decision that could turn key player into superstar as soon as 2026 season
The Bolts just made a great decision for the future of their defense.
