2021 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys fix defense, Justin Fields slides to Broncos

13. Los Angeles Chargers: Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

There is already a debate going on about whether or not the Dolphins messed up in taking Tua last season out of Alabama. True, the former Crimson Tide gun-slinger had his share of growing pains as a rookie but he didn’t look awful. Instead, he looked like a first-year quarterback trying to get up to speed with the NFL game.

So why the question? Well, you can thank Justin Herbert. The Los Angeles Chargers took Herbert after Miami took their quarterback and the Oregon quarterback was out of this world. He threw for more than 4,300 yards and 31 touchdowns in 15 games and never looked like he was new at the professional level.

None of that should be a knock on Tua, but it’s just an example of how good Herbert is and the Chargers should be thrilled to know he’s going to be the future of their organization. Of course, with that being said, they need to surround him with more talent — and protect him better in the pocket especially after losing some of their offensive linemen in the offseason.

That’s the goal here as they take Rashawn Slater out of Northwestern. Slater is a great pick since he has experience at left tackle but can also play inside. There’s really nowhere on the line he can’t succeed and that gives Los Angeles a chess piece to move around and find where he’s best suited and best helps the team as well.