2017 NFL Draft: Chargers Draft a Quarterback in this Seven Round Mock Draft
By Jason Reed
In the first round of this mock 2017 NFL Draft, the Chargers arguably got the best steal they could have. While the popular consensus is that the team will reel in either Malik Hooker or Jamal Adams, here they landed one of the best talents in the draft in Derek Barnett. Barnett is a fierce rusher that would give the Chargers one of the best 1-2-3 combos of Bosa, Luiget, and Barnett.
Barnett is the second best rusher in the draft behind likely first overall pick Myles Garrett, with many believing that Barnett will be selected second overall. However, instead the 49ers selected quarterback Deshaun Watson; with Jamal Adams going third to the Bears and Malik Hooker fifth to the Titans.
While the Chargers could have selected Mike Williams, the best receiver in this year’s draft, here in this mock draft they opted to go with the extremely gifted Barnett. It is not a bad selection either, as the defense has consistently been the Chargers Achilles’ Heel and they could benefit from having one of the best young lines in the entire league.
Barnett had an extremely good junior year with Tennesse last season. In 13 games the defensive end registered 56 total tackles with 19 being for loss and 13 being sacks. Add in his 2 forced fumbles and in interception and it is evident that Barnett is a fearsome rusher.
The Chargers not only drafted one of the best prospects in this list, but they addressed an area of need which is to fill the void alongside Joey Bosa. In my book, this is an A+ selection.