NFL Draft 2011: San Diego Chargers Draft Breakdown

The San Diego Chargers looked to address key issues with their core in the NFL Draft April 28-30 in New York. It may not matter since Norv Turner will continue to be their coach this season. The San Diego Chargers struggled out of the gate the last several seasons and this season looks to be yet another tough start looking at their schedule.

San Diego Chargers first NFL Draft pick DE Corey Liuget, Illinois

Corey Liuget was a surprise pick among defensive ends. There were many strong defensive linemen on the board when the pick was made but the Chargers scouts are confident this is the right man to play opposite Shaun Phillips in passing situations.

San Diego Chargers second NFL Draft pick CB/KR Marcus Gilchrist, Clemson

A kick returner standing on his credentials alone would be a stretch in this spot. Marcus Gilchrist is much more than a kick returner. Gilchrist is a direct response to the Oakland Raiders speed pickups of the last few seasons. His job will be to make sure Jacoby Ford does not run all over the Chargers in the return department. Gilchrist will begin his NFL career as a special team gunner and a passing down corner.

San Diego Chargers third NFL Draft pick ILB Jonas Mouton, Michigan

Jonas Mouton is a heavy hitting linebacker that comes from the black and blue league of the Big 10. Mouton is a strong against the run and he is also good for punishing receivers that dare cross his path over the middle.

San Diego Chargers fourth NFL Draft pick WR Vincent Brown, San Diego State

Did the San Diego Chargers get confused and have a flashback? His name is Vincent Brown, not Vincent Jackson. Brown is still a nice pick up for the Chargers fourth pick. He has good hands and is a superior route runner that will adapt to the Chargers offense quickly.

San Diego Chargers fifth NFL Draft pick CB Shareece Wright, USC

The second corner picked up by the Chargers, Sahreece Wright is a speedster that may start on the special teams. He has seen limited action with USC and that may be a good thing for the Chargers.

San Diego Chargers sixth NFL Draft pick RB Jordan Todman, Connecticut

Jordon Todman is a another candidate for special teams but he is also a running back that can push Ryan Mathews. If Mathews struggles or he is injured, Todman is good enough to make an NFL roster and if things do not work out with the Chargers he will be snatched up off the waiver wire.

San Diego Chargers seventh NFL Draft pick OT Steve Schilling, Michigan

Steve Shilling will add depth along the offensive line. With the Marcus McNeil situation last season, the Chargers are making sure they have options for 2011. Nice pick late in the NFL Draft.

San Diego Chargers eighth NFL Draft pick OLB Andrew Gachkar, Missouri

An outside linebacker that can run a 4.4 in the 40 yard dash is a nice grab for their last pick in the NFL Draft. Andrew Gachkar may have a better chance to make the team ahead of some picks above him.

sources:

NFL Network NFL Draft live coverage April 28-30, 2011.

ESPN TV NFL Draft live coverage April 28-30, 2011.

NFL.com player profiles