The most-ideal picks for the Chargers in rounds 1 and 2

In a recent exercise by NFL.com’s Chad Reuter, the NFL analyst matched each team with the best two prospects they could hope for in their first two selections. For most team’s this included their first and second-round picks, but things were obviously different for team’s with multiple first-rounders or those who don’t own a first-round pick, at all.

When it came to the Chargers, Reuter paired the Bolts with wide reciever, and 2021 Heisman Trophy winner, Devonta Smith, and North Dakota State left tackle, Dillon Radunz.

The selection of Smith has been tossed around quite a few mocks in recent days while Radunz has been a notable selection for the Bolts in round two should the franchise pass once again on the offensive line in the first round.

Here’s what Reuter had to say about both picks:

“The Chargers are often projected to select a left tackle with their top pick, but I think an elite receiver would be too hard to pass up at No. 13. Smith working in the slot with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams outside would be heaven for second-year starter Justin Herbert. Smith could then move outside in 2022 if Williams leaves as a free agent. Of course, they will need to address the offensive line early in the draft. Selecting Radunz to compete with Trey Pipkins at left tackle meets that need, and he showed at the Reese’s Senior Bowl that he could play inside, if circumstances require it.”

Mike Williams will be playing on his expensive fifth-year option in 2021 after the team decided to forego signing their former first-round pick to a contract extension prior to this year’s deadline. This moves tells us that the Chargers may not be interested in keeping Williams past the 2021 season and good teams usually draft for need a year earlier instead of waiting until the last minute to hopefully land a suitable replacement.

Smith set the college world on fire with 1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns on 118 receptions en route to becoming the first wide receiver to win the Heisman since Desmond Howard in 1991. Despite his lack of mass (6’1, 175 lbs.), Smith runs savvy routes which help keep defenders from contacting him more than he wants them to. I mean, the best way to not get hit in the first place is to be good enough that you’re constantly creating enough separation to keep defenders several yards away at all times.

The 6’6, 301-pound Radunz tested well at his pro day this year, helping to keep his draft stock high after opting-out of the FCS’ spring season to prepare for this year’s draft. Radunz was invited to the 2021 Senior Bowl where he showed he could compete with the nation’s top-senior talent. With a short shuttle time of 4.53 and a three-cone of 7.27, Radunz is one of the best movers in this class. His elite short-area agility will pay dividends as he attempts to protect a mobile quarterback such as Justin Herbert.

What do you all think of this potential top-two for the Bolts? Yay or nay? What would be a more ideal pairing?