2025 NFL Draft: Chargers Hold Key Picks in Crucial Offseason

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — With the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, the Los Angeles Chargers find themselves in an intriguing position, particularly with their first-round pick at No. 22 overall. The draft, set to take place from April 24 to 26, will be held in Green Bay and is a significant opportunity for franchises to strengthen their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.

The draft kicks off on Thursday, April 24, at 5 p.m. PT, with Rounds 2 and 3 following on Friday, April 25, starting at 4 p.m. PT. Rounds 4 through 7 conclude the event on Saturday, April 26, beginning at 9 a.m. PT. Fans can catch the action on NFL Network, NFL+, ESPN, ESPN2, and ESPN Deportes.

The Chargers have a notable history picking at No. 22, having made selections in that slot three times previously. Their first was in 1975, with cornerback Mike Williams, who tallied 24 interceptions during his time with the Bolts. Gill Byrd, a Hall of Famer, was chosen at the same spot in 1983, and cornerback Darrien Gordon was picked there in 1993. Each of these players contributed significantly to the team’s legacy.

As the Chargers contemplate their strategy, analysts suggest several directions they might take. Michigan tight end Colston Loveland has garnered attention as a favorite among pundits. ‘They could get another receiver,’ noted ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum. ‘Mike Williams to me is an X-factor. Can he come back to what he was?’

However, the draft offers an array of player options. Tannenbaum hinted that a defensive prospect could also be in the cards, suggesting edge rushers like Mike Green from Marshall or Donovan Ezeiruaku from Boston College. ‘If they do decide to go for a front-seven pressure player, I do think that need matches up well with the depth of this draft,’ he explained.

No matter their choice, the Chargers’ coaching staff remains optimistic. ‘There’s so many good players there. We feel like at 22 where we’re picking, there’s going to be a really good player available for us,’ said head coach Jim Harbaugh.

This year, the Chargers boast a total of 10 draft picks, surpassing their number from the previous season. The selections include two compensatory picks obtained from the J.C. Jackson trade with the New England Patriots. Below is a breakdown of the Chargers’ picks:

• 1st Round (No. 22 overall)
• 2nd Round (No. 55)
• 3rd Round (No. 86)
• 4th Round (No. 125 overall)
• 5th Round (No. 158 overall)
• 6th Round (No. 181 from New England)
• 6th Round (No. 199)
• 6th Round (No. 209 – compensatory pick)
• 6th Round (No. 214 – compensatory pick)
• 7th Round (No. 256 – compensatory pick)

Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz, entering his second draft with the franchise, is well aware of the team’s potential. Last year’s No. 5 overall pick, tackle Joe Alt, emerged as a standout rookie, boasting impressive grades in offense, pass blocking, and run blocking. He allowed only 20 pressures over 16 regular season games.

The Chargers are set to evaluate more talent from the latest batch of college athletes, with possibilities for standout performances from players like cornerbacks Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart, who made significant contributions as rookies last season. Their continued development is crucial for the Chargers as they finalize their draft strategy.