The Chargers made eight selections in the 2026 NFL draft, kicking things off with edge rusher Akheem Mesidor as their first-round pick.
While the Chargers chose to prioritize the defense with the No. 22 overall pick, general manager Joe Hortiz bolstered the offensive line a ton.
The Bolts have yet to win a playoff game in the Jim Harbaugh era, and they hope to change that with the help of their draft class in 2026.
Round 1, No. 22: EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
The 25-year-old’s age and injury history were concerns for other teams, but not the Bolts. Hortiz believes Mesidor will be one of the most mature rookies after spending six seasons in college.
Round 2, No. 63: OL Jake Slaugher, Florida
The Chargers had one of the worst offensive lines in the league last season, hampered by injuries. The team’s 54% pass block win rate last season was the worst in the NFL. The Bolts will look to change that with additions like Slaughter, who will compete for the starting left guard job. Slaughter is an elite-testing athlete with quick feet.
Round 4, No. 105: WR Brenen Thompson, Mississippi State
Thompson provides the Chargers with a true deep threat for Herbert, along with a speedster to bolster the wide receiver room. Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is looking for players who can infuse speed into his high-powered offense and Thompson fits the bill.
Round 4, No. 117: OT Travis Burke, Memphis
Not many people stand taller than Joe Alt, but Burke does. He provides the Chargers with a massive blocker whose rare length and frame give him a significant physical advantage, projecting as a reliable swing tackle.
Round 4, No. 131: S Genesis Smith, Arizona
The safety room needed another youthful boost. Known for his coverage skills, Smith uses his excellent length and fluid movement to excel in both deep zone and man coverage, effectively disrupting passing lanes.
Round 5, No. 145: DT Nick Barrett, South Carolina
Barrett should be a rotational nose tackle for the Chargers. His arrival is much-needed for the defense as the team lost Da’Shawn Hand and Otito Ogbonnia in free agency.
Round 6, No. 202: OL Logan Taylor, Boston College
Taylor brings versatility to the Chargers’ offensive line. While it may seem redundant to draft another lineman, the Bolts saw what happens when injuries and poor performance affect the unit. They won’t let it happen again.
Round 6, No. 206: OT Alex Harkey, Oregon
Harkey held his own at tackle, but due to sub-standard arm length, he is considered a better fit for guard in the NFL.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 1 stat to know about each Chargers draft pick in 2026
Reporting by Valentina Martinez, Chargers Wire / Chargers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
