2017 NFL Draft: Chargers Seven Round Mock Draft
By Jason Reed
![Apr 29, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers first round draft pick Joey Bosa (C) poses for a picture with general manager Tom Telesco head coach Mike McCoy and president of a football operations John Spanos during a press conference at Chargers Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports Apr 29, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers first round draft pick Joey Bosa (C) poses for a picture with general manager Tom Telesco head coach Mike McCoy and president of a football operations John Spanos during a press conference at Chargers Park. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/685672812a8f31487a3ef39d48bdffb1e96124183ec8dba7e4cda076b767da84.jpg)
In what is perhaps the most perplexing selection of the draft thus far, the Chargers select receiver Travis Rudolph in the fifth round out of Florida State. The former Seminole certainly has perks in his game, but it is interesting to why the Chargers would select consecutive receivers after selecting three defensive options. However, Rudolph may have a specific role to play in LA.
While Rudolph doesn’t have the stuff to be an impact player anytime soon, he does have a certain skill set that would serve valuable to Los Angeles. Rudolph’s most value, coming right out of the draft, seems to be his run blocking as a receiver. His six-foot frame and physicality would be a perfect addition to a Chargers team that often lacks that intensity on the offensive end.
While he certainly won’t be getting time over the guys ahead of him on skill alone, Rudolph will certainly get a decent amount of snaps because of the tools he brings. These snaps could see Rudolph progress into a decent option for Rivers and could be a consistent member of the red zone personnel.
Rudolph may not be a member of the Chargers first team at all, but he would serve a valuable role for what the Chargers need. With his seven touchdowns and first-team all conference honors, Rudolph does have the skills to potentially maximize his role in the Chargers organization.