The Los Angeles Chargers, under new head coach Jim Harbaugh, opted to draft Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt with the No. 5 pick instead of selecting a star wide receiver, emphasizing Alt's competitiveness as a key factor in the decision-making process.

By the Numbers
  • The Chargers drafted Joe Alt, a 6'9", 321-pound offensive tackle, with the No. 5 pick.
  • The team passed on top wide receiver prospects Malik Nabers and Rome Odunze in the draft.
Yes, But

The decision to prioritize defense over adding a wide receiver may raise questions regarding the team's offensive strategy and the need for more receiving talent.

State of Play
  • Jim Harbaugh justified the decision based on Alt's competitiveness and the perception of offensive linemen as crucial "weapons" in the team's approach to attacking on offense.
  • Chargers coaches with direct experience working with Alt at Notre Dame provided valuable insights that influenced the draft selection.
What's Next

Future developments will reveal how Joe Alt's presence on the team impacts the Chargers' offensive and defensive strategies and whether the decision to forego a star wide receiver pays off in the long run.

Bottom Line

The Chargers' draft decision reflects a strategic emphasis on competitiveness and the pivotal role of offensive linemen in shaping the team's offensive tactics, highlighting a departure from conventional wisdom in prioritizing the offensive tackle position.