2018 NFL Mock Draft: 10 Big trades create mass chaos

One can only imagine how the Los Angeles Chargers felt at the end of last season after falling short of the playoffs despite winning six of their final seven games to close out the year since their poor start clearly caught up with them. On a positive note, at least early signs point to the Chargers already being one of the teams to beat in the AFC heading into next season, although that’s always easier said than done when looking at how this team has struggled for the most part over the years.

Then again, Los Angeles should be able to use their hot finish to close out last season as motivation to make sure they start off 2018 on a much better note to avoid the unnecessary pressure of having to play catch up come December. While numerous factors came into play for the Chargers late success last season, it was the defense that was arguably one of the biggest difference makers thanks to a dynamic duo in Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram.

Los Angeles could easily end up focusing on defense in the first round once the draft gets underway, but also providing additional protection for Philip Rivers with someone like Quenton Nelson if available. The Notre Dame guard could end up being the top lineman selected at the end of the month, and Nelson joining a contender in the Chargers would only increase their chances of coming through this time around for the playoffs instead of falling short.