Los Angeles Chargers Connected to Potential ‘Surprise’ Draft Selection at No. 22 Pick

The Los Angeles Chargers are in a tough spot in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. General manager Joe Hortiz picks late in the first round, at No. 22, when everything becomes nearly unpredictable.

While the Chargers’ front office likely has a strong idea of which players could be first-round draft prospects, there’s no way to know what the teams picking before them will do when they’re on the clock. Plus, the Chargers have a total of just five selections throughout the three-day event, which kicks off on April 23. Nevertheless, the Chargers are assembling their draft board, and some players who fit specific needs will certainly stand out on draft day.

But who might that be? Recently, Essentially Sports’ NFL insider Tony Pauline predicted that two players who could become a “surprise” selection by the Chargers at 22 are offensive guards Emmanuel Pregnon and Chase Bisontis. Both are viewed as likely second-round picks, but as noted, the Chargers’ needs could push either prospect into the late-first round.

“After Ioane, Emmanuel Pregnon, and Chase Bisontis are neck and neck to end up as OG2, and both could land in the bottom half of the first round,” Pauline wrote. “The landing spot for both players is between selections 26 and 38, unless the Los Angeles Chargers pull a surprise with the 22nd pick. ” “The Chargers’ depth chart at guard is weak and could use an upgrade for this season, as well as moving forward.