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2016 NFL Mock Draft Version 4.0 – The Free-Agency Update

By David Harrison

Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 8, 2016; San Francisco, CA, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell during a "Handoff to Houston" press conference at the Super Bowl Media Center at Moscone Center-West. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 29, 2014; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive lineman DeForest Buckner (44) celebrates in the first quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 29, 2014; Corvallis, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks defensive lineman DeForest Buckner (44) celebrates in the first quarter against the Oregon State Beavers at Reser Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

13. . DE. Oregon. DeForest Buckner. 3. player

San Diego’s free agency efforts have taken the offense into great account, and have given Philip Rivers more opportunities for success moving forward.

On the defensive side, there’s still help to be found, and DeForest Buckner from Oregon is the most talented 3-4 lineman in the group. With the ability to come on effectively from the edge, and the strength and power to move inside on four man fronts, Buckner has been steadily climbing the boards of draft pundits and should be high on the Chargers’ board as well.

The pass rush generated by Buckner will help newly acquired cornerback Casey Heyward as he comes in as an expected starter on the outside. Going up against Demaryius Thomas, Jeremy Maclin, Amari Cooper, and the rest of the NFLs receiver talent, Heyward will benefit greatly from the addition of a top pass rushing rookie.

The Chargers ranked 24th in the NFL in sacks with just 32 on the year. Further demonstrating their need on the defensive front is the fact the team was also one of only six in the entire NFL to surrender more than 2,000 yards rushing in 2015.

After Ramsey and Tunsil, Buckner is the next best prospect for San Diego and fills a big position of need for the Chargers.

 

Previously:  Jalen Ramsey – CB – Florida State

Next: 4. Dallas Cowboys

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