One of the more intriguing aspects of Jim Harbaugh taking over as the newest head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers is the upcoming Draft, and whether or not Harbaugh will target his former players to address specific needs in LA.
According NFL Draft Analyst Chad Reuter, the top needs for the Chargers heading into the 2024 Draft are at cornerback, running back, defensive tackle, edge rusher, and tight end. Harbaugh also recently indicated that his hope is to make the Chargers ‘Michigan West’. With that being said, here are the five most likely Michigan draft prospect to end up with their former head coach in Los Angeles.
- Blake Corum, RB
It’s hard to imagine any scenario that Harbaugh wouldn’t push hard for his former RB1 to join him with the Chargers, especially if there’s a need at running back in LA. Corum was an absolute workhorse during his time with Michigan, becoming Michigan’s first (and only) two-time Big Ten Running Back of the Year. He finished his time in Ann Arbor owning the single season scoring record (168), single season rushing touchdown record (27), and career rushing touchdowns (58) – and is widely regarded as the greatest Michigan running back of all-time.
2. Jaylen Harrell, EDGE
Jaylen Harrel led the Wolverines in sacks during the 2023 season (6.5), and was No. 12 on the team in tackles with 31. At 6-5, 245 pounds, the senior edge rusher was responsible for 27 total pressures, resulting in 19 QB hurries, 2 QB hits, and 6.5 sacks on the season. Here are some of his strengths, according to NFL Draft Buzz:
- He’s outstanding on the blitz, showing initial burst and quickness with his first step, with the core strength to bounce off blocks and overpower backs in blitz pickup, closing fast on the quarterback.
- Handles misdirection well with quick change-of-direction ability. Comes downhill quickly against the run when Harrell has an open lane.
- Harrell combines the athleticism of a chase-and-tackle defender and the toughness and physicality of a classic 4-3 Mike.
- Ferocious against the run and very good in coverage, is extremely versatile. Despite his build, he holds up well in traffic and makes a lot of plays by engaging a block, shedding, and pursuing.
- Good all-around athlete with very good short-area quickness and fluidity. Very good playing strength and has worked hard in the weight room, adding bulk and filling out his frame.
- Has the dynamic athleticism to be a force on the edge. He’s a fluid mover with bend-and-dip flexibility as a pass rusher, and he uses his long arms to ward off blockers.
3. Zak Zinter, OL
I know that the offensive line isn’t considered a top need for the Chargers at the moment, but there’s a chance that Zinter’s injury during the 2023 season means that he slips from a likely first round pick to a second or even third round selection. There’s no question that Zinter is one of the top offensive guards in the draft, and you can never have enough elite talent up front protecting your franchise quarterback. It feels like Zinter is a future Pro Bolwer who is going to spend a long time playing in the NFL, and will likely establish himself as key piece of whatever offensive line he becomes a part of in the future. The unanimous All-American is going to be on a lot of wish lists at the next level, and I suspect that includes Harbaugh’s.
4. AJ Barner, TE
By all accounts, Los Angeles is looking to give QB Justin Herbert a reliable target at the tight end position – and former Michigan TE AJ Barner is about as reliable as they come. During the 2023 season, the 6-6, 251 pound TE accounted for 249 yards and 1 touchdown on 22 receptions. In addition to being a factor in the passing attack, Barner saw a lot of reps in the Michigan offense because of his physicality and blocking ability. Barner might not be a year-one starter in the NFL, but he’s certainly a guy that can come in and make an immediate impact for any franchise that drafts him.
5. Cornelius Johnson/Roman Wilson, WR
The Chargers have a need at wide receiver, and there are two solid options out of Ann Arbor that will be available in this year’s draft. I wouldn’t expect the Chargers to target Cornelius Johnson or Roman Wilson in any of the early rounds, but these are two guys who could certainly be a steal in the draft for someone who knows the value they provide (like Jim Harbaugh). The San Francisco 49ers selected former U-M wide receiver Ronnie Bell in the 7th round (253rd overall), and he’s made some big plays during his rookie season. I can see a similar scenario in Los Angeles for either Johnson or Wilson.
