Chargers Scouting: The Three Top Prospects That Chargers Fans Must Know

The Los Angeles Chargers currently hold the first overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft. They’ve had a disastrous season so far, but that only brings hope in April.

With the first overall pick, Los Angeles would have their choice of any prospect. But who should they pick? There’s still plenty of time for that to change, but here are three options Chargers fans must know.

Jeremiah Smith: WR- Ohio State

Jeremiah Smith is among the greatest wide receiver prospects in NFL history. The six-foot-four, 222-pound junior has every trait of a superstar wide receiver: size, speed, quickness, hands, route running, IQ. He has dominated in 2026 with 52 receptions for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns through seven games. It’s impossible to be a no-miss prospect, as that doesn’t exist, but Smith is closer to that than anyone.

The Chargers’ weapons have failed Justin Herbert so far. Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, and Tre Harris have flashed potential, but none of them can stay healthy or consistent. A revamp at the position could be coming. And there’s nowhere better to start than with Jeremiah Smith.

Drew Mestemaker: QB- Oklahoma State

I know the Chargers have Justin Herbert; just hear me out. If nothing changes and they do get the first overall pick, then changes will be made. This could be on the coaching staff, on the defense, or at quarterback, possibly shipping Herbert off and embracing the rebuild.

I’m not saying this will happen, but it’s worth considering.

If it does, then Drew Mestemaker will be the top option for Los Angeles. The six-foot-three, 215-pound redshirt sophomore has quickly translated to the Power-Four level, leading the Big 12 with 1,944 yards and sixteen touchdowns. He pairs a rocket arm capable of making every throw with elite decisiveness and processing that make him the current QB1 of the draft class.

Leonard Moore: Cornerback- Notre Dame

As of now, Leonard Moore is in a head-to-head race with Texas edge rusher Colin Simmons, who narrowly missed this list, as the best defender in college football. The six-foot-two, 197-pound junior is dominant in man coverage and comfortable in zone. Beyond this, he’s a spectacular athlete, capable of staying with straight-line burners and shifty players, and isn’t afraid to defend the run.

The Chargers' top cornerback, Donte Jackson, will be an unrestricted free agent next offseason. If nothing changes, it would be wiser to invest significant capital in a young star rather than bring back Jackson on a heavy contract.