AFC West Draft Grades: San Diego Chargers
- Updated: May 14, 2014
Cornerback Jason Verrett
San Diego Chargers
Analysis: The Chargers struck gold by drafting cornerback Jason Verrett and outside linebacker Jeremiah Attaochu in the first two rounds. Verrett is a plug-and-play starter, who can help the defense on the outside, or in the slot. Verrett doesn’t possess ideal height (5-9 ½), but has everything else a defensive coordinator would look for in a cornerback. He’s physical, competitive, and instinctive, and also comes up and make plays in the run game. Attaochu was one of my favorite pass rushers in this draft. He’s still developing, and that is scary, since he already is a disruptive force when getting after the quarterback. He’s also in an ideal situation being a third rush linebacker behind Jarrett Johnson and all-time great Dwight Freeney, who is likely nearing the end of his storied career. Learning under a guy like Freeney can’t be a bad thing for Attaochu. The addition of Chris Watt in the third round was another smart selection for the Chargers, who must keep the pocket clean for quarterback Philip Rivers. Watt also provides depth at the right guard position, behind Jeromey Clarey. The Chargers also upgraded the nose tackle position with the addition of Ryan Carrethers, a run-stuffer, who should help inside linebackers, Mantei Te’o and Donald Butler, run free to the ball. Running back, Marlon Grice (6th round) and receiver Tevin Reese (7th round), add athleticism to the offense and return game. I like what the Chargers did in this draft. They really upgraded positions of need without reaching.
Grade: B+
San Diego Chargers – 2014 Draft Selections
1 (25) Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
2 (50) Jeremiah Attaochu, OLB, Georgia Tech
3 (89) Chris Watt, G, Notre Dame
5 (165) Ryan Carrethers, DT, Arkansas State
6 (201) Marlon Grice, RB, Arizona State
7 (240) Tevin Reese, WR, Baylor
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