Bolts select Bama corner in latest 2021 mock

The Chargers are on the path to have a top-10 in next year’s upcoming NFL draft. As that coincides with having a terrible season, it’s easier to turn towards the coming season when you know there’s the chance to add a future star.

When the time comes, will the Bolts decide to go with an offensive lineman in the first round — something Tom Telesco hasn’t done since his first season as general manager — or will he continue to reinforce other important areas of the team despite the ongoing need for protection up front?

Ryan Wilson of CBS Sports believes Telesco could elect to go with a new defender in the secondary. Forgoing a potential left tackle of the future, Wilson has the Bolts selecting legacy cornerback Patrick Surtain Jr. out of Alabama.

“Only cornerbacks Casey Hayward and Chris Harris are under contract after the 2021 season and adding Surtain would give the Chargers another young, physical playmaker on a defense that has to play with more consistency.”

At 6’2 and 203 pounds, Surtain checks the height and length boxes of a Gus Bradley corner. His technique is elite, utilizing short, efficient steps to stay in correct positioning throughout the play and remain in stride with any receiver that lines up opposite of him. He’s known to be physical, using his hands quite a lot, but he has a knack for getting away with being a bit “handsy.” Lastly, he’s competitive through the catch point. While he doesn’t have an interception in his junior season, Surtain hasn’t been targeted all that much, painting the picture of a corner that creates hesitation when quarterbacks look his way.

What do you all think of this selection? Would you prefer another position? If so, what position and which prospect would you rather see in the first?