Should the Chargers select an edge rusher in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Los Angeles Chargers re-signed edge rusher Khalil Mack to a one-year, $18 million deal. This is spectacular news for fans, as Mack tallied 5.5 sacks in 2025 and will heavily contribute next season, but it shouldn’t affect their offseason plans. Despite the signing, the Chargers still need to address edge rusher early in the 2026 NFL Draft. They still need an upgrade and to help build depth on the defensive line.
Mack is an outstanding player, but isn’t a long-term solution opposite of Tuli Tuipulotu. The NFL veteran recently turned 35 years old and is nearing the end of his career. Additionally, Odafe Oweh, who was second on the team with 7.5 sacks last year, is still an unrestricted free agent. Edge rusher will go from a need to a necessity if they are unable to reach an agreement with Oweh.
Luckily for the Chargers, the NFL Draft is loaded with talent at edge rusher. Barring a trade-up, they aren’t in a position to land Miami’s Rueben Bain or Texas Tech’s David Bailey. However, there are still elite options potentially available at pick 22. Here are three potential options Chargers fans should familiarize themselves with prior to April.
Zion Young- Missouri
Zion Young is a prototypical defensive end who dominates the run and has the potential to develop into a pass rusher. The 6-foot-5, 262-pound edge rusher uses his elite power and athleticism to bully the opposing lineman. His violent hand usage allows him to seamlessly shed blocks and penetrate the backfield. Young still needs to develop some pass rush moves, but the tools are there to become an impactful three-down star.
Keldric Faulk- Auburn
Similar to Young, Faulk is superb against the run. He's an outstanding athlete and has impressive lateral agility that lets him beat the opposition to a spot. Additionally, he can easily shed blocks to reach the backfield. Faulk’s one of the youngest prospects in the NFL Draft, at 20 years old, and could still use some refinement as a pass rusher. He’s not the most explosive off the line of scrimmage currently, but can develop that over time. Faulk’s potential to become a three-down player and dominance against the run warrant a first-round selection.
Akheem Mesidor- Miami
Akheem Mesidor was one of the best pass rushers in the nation during 2025. Mesidor is absurdly explosive and looks like he’s shot out of a cannon each play. His chaotic nature helps him keep opposing linemen guessing. Mesidor has a full toolbox of pass rush moves and implements them regularly. He’s an older prospect, 25 years old, and needs to improve his play strength still, but he’s an enticing option for teams looking to improve their pass rush.