Edge rusher became a much more prevalent need for the Chargers once Odafe Oweh signed with the Commanders in free agency. The Bolts were able to re-sign Khalil Mack for another season to pair with Tuli Tuipulotu, but a third impactful pass rusher is a must if they hope to keep the defensive train rolling under Chris O’Leary.
Enter Illinois’ Gabe Jacas, a promising defender who is gaining a lot of buzz as of late leading up to this month’s draft. The 6’4, 260-pounder was just hosted by the Chargers
on a Top-30 visit and has drawn comparisons to Tuipulotu in that he’s a power rusher with a no-nonsense approach to getting after the quarterback. His motor runs hot and he’s more of a bouncer in the club when hunting than a guy who wins with finesse.
Jacas made an impact as a true freshman when he started eight games and played in all 13 contests. He was named a Freshman All-American after posting five tackles for loss and four sacks. After combining for 12 sacks over his sophomore and junior seasons, Jacas capped his collegiate career with 11 quarterback takedowns and 13.5 tackles for loss with three forced fumbles en route to earning Second-Team All-Big Ten honors.
As of now, Jacas is likely a second-round pick but has the chance to sneak into the bottom of the first. The Chargers picking him with the 22nd pick is likely to be a bit rich, but don’t rule out a trade back if they don’t like how the board fell through the first 21 selections.
That said, how would you all feel about the Chargers adding a player like Jacas to the defense? Yay or nay? If nay, why not? Let us know all of your thoughts below!
