Following the 2026 NFL Draft, ESPN's Field Yates identified his favorite picks in every round, and the Chargers were represented by fourth-round pick Brenan Thompson and fifth-round pick Nick Barrett.
Here is what Yates said about the selection of Thompson:
Thompson was a solid pick for the Chargers because he brings game-breaking speed that perfectly complements Mike McDaniel’s offensive system. Clocking a blazing 4.26-second 40-yard dash, Thompson provides the vertical and yards-after-catch threat Los Angeles has lacked.
Furthermore, he could be a high-upside return specialist. Despite having limited opportunities as a returner in college, Thompson's profile makes him an ideal candidate to revitalize a unit that finished in the bottom five for both punt and kick return yardage last season.
Here is what Yates said about Barrett:
The Chargers landed a high-floor rotational defensive tackle in Barrett. In his 2025 breakout season as a full-time starter, Barrett delivered strong run defense, showing the ability to clog gaps and create negative plays. Following the loss of Da'Shawn Hand and Otito Ogbonnia, Barrett provides reliable interior depth behind starters Dalvin Tomlinson and Teair Tart.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: ESPN's Field Yates names 2 Chargers among 'favorite picks'
