Zurück
The Chargers are on pace to grab the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft.
That wasn't part of the Chargers' plans entering the season; however, that’s been the case through their first six games. Los Angeles sits at 0-6 and is right in the thick of the race for the No. 1 pick.
While the Chargers are convinced that they’ll turn things around and do what they can to salvage the 2026 season, it may be best for them to roll over, become sellers before the trade deadline, and shoot for the top pick, all so they can potentially draft Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.
Potentially adding Smith alongside Justin Herbert could do wonders for the Chargers' offense next season. Not only could he provide an immediate boost, but Smith could also give Los Angeles a dimension it has lacked since Mike Williams.
"Jeremiah Smith can be the X wideout the Los Angeles Chargers failed to replace," Noah Furtado of The Athletic wrote.
"And with the Chargers 0-6 and holding the No. 1 draft spot at the bye, it looks possible they could get the Ohio State standout receiver in April."
Smith is the nation's best player. His elite size, speed, and wide receiver skill set are second to none, and like Williams, Smith excels at 50/50 balls.
He stands at 6-foot-4 and weighs roughly 225 pounds. Everything about him screams "elite," and with this year's quarterback class not looking too bright, Smith has the tools to be the first player taken.
Smith would immediately be the Chargers' true "X" receiver and red-zone weapon. His presence and skillset alone would bolster the wide receiver room.
On top of that, Smith would ease the pressure off Herbert, who has lacked a true star to throw to for the past three seasons.
The Chargers acquiring Smith would be a step in the right direction; however, it wouldn't solve the deeper issues that plague the team.
The No. 1 pick is certainly in the realm of possibility for the Chargers. However, it remains to be seen whether they will embrace that possibility coming out of their bye week.