Round 1, Pick 22: WR Denzel Boston, Washington. At 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds, Boston brings elite size and standout red-zone ability, having posted 20 touchdowns over the last two seasons. While he may not be a blistering burner, his matchup advantage and catching radius could give Justin Herbert a preferred target if Keenan Allen departs or ages out by 2026.
Round 2, Pick 55: DT Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati. Corleone adds a stout, run-stuffing presence at nose tackle, standing 6-foot-1 and about 335 pounds. He provides valuable depth on a defense that was already top-10 last season, though his upside as a pass rusher isLimited. If LA loses D’Shawn Hand in free agency, Corleone’s role could become even more pivotal on early downs.
Round 3, Pick 86: TE Justin Joly, NC State. Joly is a versatile 6-foot-3, 251-pound tight end who can line up all over the formation. He complements Orande Gadsden II, who showed TE1 potential, by providing a reliable and well-rounded option in the middle of the field. Joly’s production at NC State — including 1,000-plus yards and 11 touchdowns over two seasons — adds tangible receiving upside.
Round 4, Pick 123: RB Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest. Claiborne brings speed and burst at 5-foot-9, 192 pounds, with track background credentials and strong pass-catching ability. With Omarion Hampton and Amar Johnson under contract, Claiborne offers depth and a potential replacement path for Kimani Vidal if he leaves, while also contributing as a big-play threat.
Round 6, Pick 202: WR Josh Cameron, Baylor. Cameron adds another physical, contested-catch option at 6-foot-1, 224 pounds, and he excels as a run-after-the-catch threat. His return game value is notable, highlighted by leading the FBS with 20.7 yards per punt return in 2024, making him a valuable Day 3 contributor for special teams and depth at receiver.
Overall, the mocked five-round plan from PFF centers on arming McDaniel’s offense with bigger, move-the-sticks targets and versatile playmakers, while adding depth on the defensive line to weather any free-agent losses. If realized, these picks would shape a Chargers roster focused on a more dynamic aerial attack and improved frontline versatility.
