With The First Pick
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Los Angeles Chargers: In-Depth 2017 NFL Draft Review

By Jon Dove

Apr 28, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers first round pick Mike Williams poses with president A.G. Spanos (left) during a press conference at StubHub Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2017; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers first round pick Mike Williams poses with president A.G. Spanos (left) during a press conference at StubHub Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a touchdown against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) in the fourth quarter in the 207 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bart Boatwright/The Greenville News via USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers wide receiver Mike Williams (7) catches a touchdown against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) in the fourth quarter in the 207 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bart Boatwright/The Greenville News via USA TODAY Sports /

Biggest Risk

Mike Williams is an explosive player who routinely makes big catches. His size and speed combo makes a true match up nightmare. However, adding him to the mix has the potential to cause some bad blood in the receiver room.

Los Angeles has a lot of depth at the wide receiver position. The oft-injured Keenan Allen is seen as the team’s No. 1 target but his availability is an issue. It’s not hard to look at the addition of Mike Willams as a statement to Allen.

The Chargers could realistically cut ties with Allen heading into the season with a receiving corps of Williams, Travis Benjamin, Tyrell Williams, Dontrelle Inman and Isaiah Burse.

Another way the selection of Williams is a risk is that it means the Chargers passed on other talent. They could’ve used this pick to add some defensive help—especially in the secondary. Ohio State’s Malik Hooker and Marshon Lattimore were both still on the board with the Chargers selected.

However, it’s hard to look at this draft class and see much negativity. Los Angeles added some real talent at positions of need. The key will be for head coach Anthony Lynn to keep everyone on the same page.

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