Los Angeles Chargers: 5 First-round targets in the 2018 NFL Draft

CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Melvin Gordon (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - DECEMBER 31: Melvin Gordon (Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images) /
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PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 08: Brian O’Neill #70 of the Pittsburgh Panthers rushes for a 24-yard touchdown in the first half during the game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on October 8, 2016 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA – OCTOBER 08: Brian O’Neill #70 of the Pittsburgh Panthers rushes for a 24-yard touchdown in the first half during the game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets on October 8, 2016 at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Justin K. Aller/Getty Images) /

5. Brian O’Neill, OT, Pittsburgh

Even though the Chargers offensive line did a fantastic job of protecting Philip Rivers in 2017, it wouldn’t hurt to draft another talented guy to add to the mix. It’s clear Anthony Lynn wants the Bolts’ offensive identity to revolve around throwing the football, so drafting Brian O’Neill in the first round would make perfect sense.

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If you haven’t heard of O’Neill before this article, just know that he has been a phenomenally consistent player for the Pittsburgh Panthers over the last three seasons. Take a look at this impressive accomplishment, according to John Taylor from NBC Sports:

"The last three seasons, O’Neill started 37 games in a row for the Panthers.  After starting 24 games in a row at right tackle — his first start was on the opposite side — he started all 12 games at left tackle this past season."

It’s a good thing when you can find a talented offensive lineman, who also comes into the league without having a significant injury history. Los Angeles needs to continue building for their future, which again, is a big reason why they must consider taking a chance on O’Neill in the first round this upcoming April.