The San Diego Chargers have the No. 18 pick in the first round of next month’s draft.
The Chargers have had a pretty good offseason so far, but they could use an impact player in the draft. Will they be able to secure one at No. 18? It’s questionable. That’s why I think the Chargers could opt to trade up in the draft to find a player. Here are some players who both fit the Chargers’ needs and who I think could be worth trading up for
Memphis DT Dontari Poe
How far up would the Chargers have to go up? The 9-10-pick range
Would it be worth it? It would be fairly costly. The Chargers have some interesting pieces on the defensive front, but Poe has a chance to be special. Poe and 2011 No. 1 pick Corey Liuget would make a fearsome pair for years to come and could change the defense.
Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina
How far up would the Chargers have to go up? 12-14-pick range
Would it be worth it? I think Ingram is a perfect fit for the Chargers. He would solve a lot of problems and I think he is a fairly safe pick. It wouldn’t cost too much to get him.
Mark Barron, S, Alabama
How far up would the Chargers have to go up? 14-16 range
Would it be worth it? Only if the Chargers think he is a difference maker and they don’t think he will be available at No. 18.
Courtney Upshaw, DE/OLB, Alabama
How far up would the Chargers have to go up? 14-16 range
Would it be worth it? The Chargers have closely scouted him. If the Chargers think the difference between Upshaw and Illinois’ Whitney Mercilus -- the next best pass-rusher on the draft -- is substantial, then it would be worth moving up a few spots to take Upshaw.