Chargers Draft Mesidor, Eye Guards on Day Two

The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off the 2026 NFL Draft by grabbing Miami-Edge

Russia Akim Mesador at pick number 22 in the first round. That move plugs their

biggest whole love front after losing Odathe Oei to free agency. Now they've

got one glaring knee left, a starting guard to battle for left guard on their

revamped offensive line. Earlier this week, the Draft board fell pretty much as

expected, with top-edge guys flying off early. Historical trends backed that up,

so the Chargers prioritized Mesador, overweighting. They passed on Penn State

Guard Oliva Vega Iawan, who went 14th to Baltimore, knowing day two would have

solid guard options without the. Drop off and pass Rush Talon. Fans and

analysts are buzzing about General Manager Joe Hortiza's strategy, especially

after his confident presser with Jim Harbaw. Skipping a guard at 22 keeps elite

edged rushes in play, avoiding a thinner board by their second-round pick at

number 55. It's a calculated play that fits Hortiza's track record from

Baltimore. Looking ahead to day two, the Chargers are eyeing top interior

lineman like Chase by Sonsis, Emmanuel Pregnant, and Jennings Dunker to lock

down that. Guard spot right away. No need to risk waiting to around three when

these day one starters are still there. With the line short up, they could pivot

to defensive backs or add trench beef like a defensive tackle in round three.

Smart drafting keeps the Chargers competitive eyes on day two for the next big

swing. That's your California News Today update. AI powered and always on.