The Los Angeles Chargers head into the draft with huge question marks across the roster. As it stands now, they have major areas to address on the defensive line and at linebacker. They could use another running back, a tight end for the future, and of course, there is the long-standing fan favorite: a true wide receiver.
In Mel Kiper’s latest mock draft for ESPN, he addresses perhaps head coach Jim Harbaugh’s pet project- the offensive line. The Chargers have already poured a ton of resources into the position in the form of three first-round draft picks and three 2025 free agents.
Los Angeles Chargers Draft Grey Zabel In New Mock Draft
“Los Angeles would love for one of the top three receivers or top two tight ends to be sitting there when it is on the clock. And there’s a chance the Chargers reach slightly for someone like Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State) or Luther Burden III (Missouri),” Kiper wrote…
“I lean toward a better value move: Pick an impact lineman for the run game now, and wait until Day 2 for a deep pool of playmakers. Zabel played all over in college, with starts at both tackle positions and both guard spots. He’s a tone-setter who drives defenders off the ball, and he could help open rush lanes at left guard. Per ESPN Research, Zabel would join Trevor Penning (2022) and Lester Holmes (1993) as the only non-FBS offensive linemen selected in the top 22 picks since the 1978 FBS/FCS split.”
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler ranks Zabel as the 3rd best interior offensive lineman and 38th best prospect in the 2025 NFL draft class, writing;
“Be it out in space or in confined areas, Zabel shines as a run blocker with his athletic range and grip strength to connect, strain and seal lanes. In pass protection, he can be walked back and will surrender depth versus power, but he mirrors well and stays balanced through contact as he refits his hands to grind bull rushes to a halt. Zabel is a college left tackle who fits best inside and is the draft’s top prospect at center.”
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