Mel Kiper thinks Tua Tagovailoa will provide needed star power for Chargers
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- Covered Rams for two years for Los Angeles Times
- Previously covered the Falcons
- Has covered the NBA and college football and basketball
Los Angeles Chargers coach Anthony Lynn said earlier this month that veteran quarterback Tyrod Taylor was “in the driver’s seat” to replace longtime signal-caller Philip Rivers, who departed in free agency. How long Taylor will maintain that seat remains anyone’s guess, though, as the Chargers prepare for the NFL draft, where they own the No. 6 overall selection and are widely anticipated to select a future franchise quarterback.
The opportunity to select a quarterback in the first round gives Chargers general manager Tom Telesco, who has been on the job since 2013, a chance to set the organization’s course for years to come as they continue to establish their footing in L.A. since relocating from San Diego three years ago.
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The 6-foot, 217-pound Tagovailoa told ESPN earlier this month that he was “100 percent right now” and that he was “ready to go.” He has since participated in a one-hour private workout that was filmed and distributed by his representatives throughout the NFL.
With the Chargers, Tagovailoa would have the opportunity to step into an offense that is otherwise prepared for immediate success.
The Chargers have bolstered their offensive line over the offseason, trading for right guard Trai Turner and signing right tackle Bryan Bulaga in free agency.
The Bolts also have in place several sure-handed targets. They placed the franchise tag on tight end Hunter Henry, re-signed breakout running back Austin Ekeler and return 1,000-yard wide receivers Mike Williams and Keenan Allen.
