Los Angele Chargers: ACC targets can improve team in 2018 NFL Draft

JACKSONVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 12: Defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers Gus Bradley watches the play on the field during the first half of their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field on November 12, 2017 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images)
JACKSONVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 12: Defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers Gus Bradley watches the play on the field during the first half of their game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field on November 12, 2017 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images)
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts against the New York Jets during the first half of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 24: Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts against the New York Jets during the first half of an NFL game at MetLife Stadium on December 24, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)

The Los Angeles Chargers just missed the playoffs this past season, but addressing the defense in the 2018 NFL Draft remains a must.

Despite finishing 9-7 and missing the playoffs, there’s hope surrounding the Los Angeles Chargers. In Anthony Lynn’s sophomore season and Philip River’s 12th as a starter, the Bolts need to secure their future and improve on defense in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Time is running out with the Chargers to get Philip Rivers that evasive Lombardi Trophy. After all, he’s the only quarterback picked in the first round of the 2004 draft to not have a title. With a 9-7 record, last season the Chargers were a couple of close wins away from getting into the playoffs where anything is possible.

Anthony Lynn’s rookie season as head coach showed a ton of promise, and with defensive coordinator Gus Bradley returning and new addition Ken Whisenhunt as offensive coordinator — things are looking up for the other team in LA.

On offense, the Chargers don’t need a ton of help — especially at their skill positions. Though, some may argue they need depth at running back. Adding a back could happen in free agency. The Chargers could also look to upgrade their offensive line at the center position and there’s a hole at right tackle.

Another glaring weakness comes on their defense at every level, from defensive line all the way to the secondary. Nevertheless, there’s a chance for them to win the division and the 2018 draft can help make that happen. However, the Chargers may also want to look toward the future to ensure they are successful beyond the great Philip Rivers.