The Los Angeles Chargers wrapped up the 2025 NFL Draft on Saturday and early reviews are positive. The team is in a reloading process under second-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. The team unloaded some key veterans this year, but has started to re-tool the roster to remain a playoff contender.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper, Jr. put together his annual draft grades on Saturday and he gave the Chargers a B+. He noted the new nucleus appearing for the Chargers and “think[s] some of these 2025 draft picks could be big parts of that.”

Mel Miper draft grade for Chargers: B+

The key picks here are their first few. Omarion Hampton is a three-down back with the ability to hit a home run any time he takes a handoff. He was the only player in the FBS to run for 1,500-plus yards and 15-plus touchdowns in 2023 and 2024. The Chargers also signed Najee Harris, so expect an effective rushing attack to support Justin Herbert. (They used play-action 33.6% of the time last season, second most in the league.)

Tre Harris was the other early pick. The Chargers desperately needed a wide receiver. Ladd McConkey had a great rookie season, but he was also a second-round pick responsible for 29.5% of the team’s receiving yards (1,149). Harris has dealt with some injuries, but he has the talent to take weight off McConkey. Harris went over 1,000 yards despite playing only eight games in 2024.

The Chargers went defense in Round 3. They allowed 4.7 yards per carry last season (27th) and lost Poona Ford in free agency. Defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell is a solid run blocker, and the 332-pounder should improve that area of Los Angeles’ defense (though I might have gone with Yahya Black or CJ West there; both of whom were ranked higher).

I’m surprised the Chargers didn’t address the interior offensive line. I projected Grey Zabel to them in Round 1 in my final mock draft, but the only offensive line addition was sixth-round tackle Branson Taylor. I docked the Chargers a bit there, but there were some good Day 3 finds in their class. Kyle Kennard had 11.5 sacks last season and can help alleviate the loss of Joey Bosa. Oronde Gadsden II catches everything thrown his direction, which is why I listed him as my favorite sleeper tight end in the class. And safety Trikweze Bridges was one of my “Orange Crushers” on “First Draft” this year. I’m a big fan of his game.