San Diego Chargers: Undrafted free agents have potential
Aug 31, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Keshawn Simpson (34) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Kentucky Wildcats with teammates Western Kentucky offensive linesman Ed Hazelett (60) and offensive linesman Cameron Clemmons (52) during the first half at LP Field. Mandatory Credit:
Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
According to Henne:
OG Ben Beckwith – Mississippi State
Also capable of playing center, the 6-3, 306-pound Bulldog is lauded for his brute strength and ability to get a strong opening punch off the snap.
OT Tyreek Burwell – Cincinnati
At 6-5, 295-pounds, the athletic Burwell thrived at tackle for the Bearcats after playing tight end at SUNY-Cortland.
OT Cameron Clemmons – Western Kentucky
A massive 6-6, 305-pound tackle, the Hilltopper is athletic in space with pundits saying he has even more room to bulk up.
What the picks bring to the table:
In the 2015 NFL Draft, the Chargers were expected to select at least one offensive lineman.
But Telesco, in a bold move, selected none, opting to pick up three undrafted free agent offensive tackles instead.
This may have seemed like a bad move, but I believe it was a move that was brewed out of serious confidence that only a playoff-caliber offensive line could bring.
I agree with Telesco in not selecting any offensive linemen in the draft and going with defense instead. It shows his unbending confidence in his current guys and gives the collection of Orlando Franklin, D.J. Fluker, King Dunlap, Michael Huey and Chris Watt some morale boosts.
Many fans have stated their lack of confidence in the right guard position, but I think what was once a position of need is now a position of strength. Guard Michael Huey is a former Arena Bowl Champion and I believe out of anyone on that offensive line, he is most likely the one who will make the biggest impact. He’s been battle tested and knows how to win football games.
The rookies signed though are definitely going to serve a purpose, though. Last season, depth and preparation were huge problems for the Chargers. With these rookies, the Chargers are going to be stacked on their line.
Out of the rookies taken by the Chargers in free agency, these guys have the best chance to make a difference on the team in 2015.
Western Kentucky’s Cameron Clemmons looks the best out of the three offensive linemen listed with an above-average frame and awesome feet at the point of attack. He stands at a massive 6-6 and has played for record-breaking rushing attacks at WKU. For a Chargers team looking to revamp their running game, Clemmons is a great signing.
It’s a good thing that Telesco didn’t waste his picks on any offensive lineman in the draft because these guys can make it.
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