Skip to main content
Advertising

Chargers Official Site | Los Angeles Chargers - chargers.com

What Did Pundits Think of the Bolts When They Were Prospects?

A look at current members of the Los Angeles Chargers when they were prospects at the NFL Scouting Combine.

It's officially draft season, which means teams, pundits and fans alike will spend countless hours pouring over profiles for hundreds of prospects.

Well, we decided to take a look at what the "experts" had to say when current Chargers were prospects trying to impress NFL teams.

Just how accurate were they?

We spent the past week combing through NFL.com's archives, compiling the below list for your enjoyment:

Keenan Allen

"A smooth outside pass-catcher, Allen has the height, speed and ability to win jump balls required of a No. 1 target in the NFL; the first-team All-Pac 12 pick in 2011 caught most of his 98 passes for 1,343 yards and 11 scores in 2011 from lefty quarterback Zach Maynard, who happens to be his half-brother. Maynard's play regressed in 2012, however, causing Allen's production to fall off his junior season. He still displayed all the same skills and talents he showcased during his uber-productive sophomore season, and he figures to go in the top 25 selections if his knee and ankle check out medically."

Travis Benjamin

"Benjamin has been a big-play threat for the Hurricanes over the years. Initially an electric return specialist only, he eventually became an effective pass-catching option. He is undersized but shows speed to get past safeties, and the route-running savvy to outwork corners and separate from them to make plays on the ball. He will be somewhat limited in his transition to the NFL due to his size, but there are many receivers of his stature that have shown the ability to overcome this at the next level. Benjamin has third-to fourth-round value due to his speed, ability to separate and experience as a returner."

Joey Bosa

"Body-beautiful college end who has the talent and upside to play with a hand down or standing in the pros. Bosa might not have the pure edge speed to be an elite pass rusher, but his hand usage and ability to generate push as a bull-rusher should make him a very good 4-3 base end or a 3-­4 outside linebacker. Bosa has a few more flaws than some may be willing to admit and his upside might be good rather than great, but his traits and growth potential as a player make him a safe selection. Bosa might be at his best with a defensive coordinator willing to move him around the field."

Melvin Gordon

"Angular, talented open-field runner who combines outstanding burst with a long stride to gain separation and hit the home run. He won't be able to outrun NFL defenders like he did in college and must develop more feel between the tackles. Gordon shines when his track runs over tackle or around the end and can put a defense to sleep around the corner. Not trustworthy enough to be a three-down back, but his pass-catching improved enough to utilize him out of backfield as a receiver."

Casey Hayward

"Hayward is a highly regarded corner out of Vanderbilt. Although his team has had little success throughout his career, playing in the heart of the Southeastern Conference has put Hayward up against top talent every week, and he has made plays consistently for the Commodores. He can run with any receiver in the SEC and has shown that he can play physically at the line of scrimmage to disrupt receivers' routes. He brings a confident mentality that he can cover anyone in single coverage given the competition he faced each week in his conference. He has third-round talent."

Hunter Henry

"By far, the premier tight end in the 2016 draft. Henry is a big body with the athleticism to get open, the hands to finish catches in traffic and the blocking ability to help give a running game the additional kick it might be missing on the edge. Henry should come in and become a very good NFL starter."

Melvin Ingram

"Ingram is one of the most athletically gifted prospects in this year's class. He came to South Carolina as an inside linebacker and has since played in various positions across the front seven. Ingram's motor, athleticism and technique allow him to bring dynamic playmaking ability to an NFL defense, whether he lines up at defensive tackle or defensive end. Some believe he could be moved to outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme to rush the passer and overpower offensive tackles. There is a chance he continues rising up boards and is potentially selected in the first round of the draft."

Russell Okung

"Okung is a prototypical left tackle in that he has rare size and long arms that allow him to control and steer pass rushers on by the pocket. He shows excellent balance and body control but will occasionally overextend or reach for the block which keeps him from sustaining blocks as long as he could. Okung should be an early draft pick on the offensive line and has the body type that teams are looking for when it comes to protecting the blind side."

Denzel Perryman

"Early down linebacker who can make plays against the run but will struggle if isolated in coverage. Perryman is a lunch-pail worker who enjoys the physical part of the game. Can be a highly productive NFL player but ceiling looks to be limited."

Jason Verrett

"A tough, scrappy, undersized nickel back with potential to ascend to a No. 2 CB if he can stay in one piece. Is not the physical prototype for the position, but compensates with outstanding athleticism, blazing speed and a tenacious temperament. Is a terrific football player who boasts toughness and competitiveness reminiscent of Cortland Finnegan's."

Mike Williams

"Williams looks the part of a WR1 and has shown an ability to work all three levels of the field after coming back from his 2015 neck injury. Williams is tough enough to be a high-volume target while working the middle of the field and his size and ball skills make him a formidable foe in the end zone. He'll have to be coached up with his routes and releases, but he has the talent to become a big safety blanket for a young quarterback."

This article has been reproduced in a new format and may be missing content or contain faulty links. Please use the Contact Us link in our site footer to report an issue.

Related Content

From Our Partners

Advertising
;