So far in these early 2026 mock drafts, the Chargers have been often paired with edge rushers with the idea that this upcoming season will be the last for Khalil Mack in the powder blue.
But in a new 2026 mock by ESPN’s Matt Miller, he has the Bolts going in a different direction on defense. With the 26th overall pick in his exercise, the Chargers selected Georgia off-ball linebacker C.J. Allen to help reinforce a position group that already has a young nucleus, but will likely lose veteran Denzel Perryman after the 2025 season.
Here’s what Miller had to say about this pairing:
“Sometimes when you’re watching film, a player jumps out as a perfect fit for an NFL scheme or coach.