Chargers’ Draft Strategy: Eyeing a Tackle at 22 or Quentin Johnston?

Bassyonni

Published: April 14, 2026 1:54 PM ET

Chargers’ Draft Strategy: Eyeing a Tackle at 22 or Quentin Johnston?

The NFL Draft is approaching, and the Los Angeles Chargers are preparing to enhance their roster with five crucial picks. Under the guidance of general manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are analyzing various strategies as the draft date of April 23 nears.

Chargers’ Draft Strategy: Assessing Tackle Versus Wide Receiver

As the Chargers finalize their draft strategy, an intriguing question arises: Will they select a tackle at the 22nd pick, or focus on a player like Quentin Johnston? Currently, the team appears to prioritize competition for the left guard position. Trevor Penning, the current starter, signed with the Chargers after a stint with the New Orleans Saints.

Potential Tackle Options

Spencer Fano (Utah) – Highly regarded as the 8th overall player by Dane Brugler.
Francis Mauigoa (Miami) – Versatile but primarily played tackle.
Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) – Experienced with 40 college starts at tackle.
Caleb Lomu (Utah) – Started 24 games exclusively at left tackle.
Blake Miller (Clemson) – Accumulated 54 starts, making him a solid option.

These tackles may have the potential to transition to guard, though the lack of college film at that position makes it a risk. A tackle selected with the intent to shift to guard would also serve as a backup option in case of injuries.

Injury Updates

The Chargers remain confident that Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt will return strong this season. Slater, currently recovering from a torn patellar tendon, is expected to maintain his role at left tackle. Meanwhile, Alt is rehabilitating from an ankle injury. Shifting Slater to guard while he is recovering could complicate his rehabilitation.

Offensive Line Strategy in the Draft

It is highly unlikely the Chargers will delay addressing their offensive line needs until Day 3 of the draft. Key prospects include:

Vega Ioane (Penn State)
Chase Bisontis (Texas A&M)
Keylan Rutledge (Georgia Tech)
Jalen Farmer (Kentucky)

The Chargers are adapting to a new offensive scheme under Mike McDaniel, focusing on linemen with agility to support his outside-zone philosophy.

Quentin Johnston’s Future

There have been discussions regarding potentially trading Quentin Johnston. However, given his current base salary of $2.68 million, he retains significant value as a player. Johnston’s potential to flourish in McDaniel’s offensive system makes him an integral part of the team’s future. The decision on Johnston’s fifth-year option, projected at $18 million, will be made by May 1.

Post-Draft Free Agency Options

If the Chargers do not secure a solid edge rusher in the draft, they may explore options in the post-draft wave of free agency. The remaining free agent market includes notable players: