Analysis
5/1/23
3 min read
L.A. Chargers NFL Draft Grades 2023: Quentin Johnston Dynamic Pick
The 2023 NFL Draft is complete, and the Los Angeles Chargers made seven picks.
The AFC West runner-up needed to improve to make up ground on the Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs.
The 33rd Team Scouting Dept. graded every pick in this year’s draft, here's how the Chargers fared:
Los Angeles Chargers 2023 NFL Draft Grades
21. Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
The Chargers needed to add speed on offense, and Quentin Johnston (scouting report) plays even faster than his timed speed (4.49 40-yard dash at the TCU Pro Day). He has been a polarizing prospect throughout the process, but he is incredibly explosive and is a dynamic playmaker with the ball in his hands. He has some head-scratching plays but even more that make you say "wow." The Chargers get the top receiver on our board. The Chargers are adding size to an already big room and a rare prospect with a high ceiling.
Grade: A+
54. Tuli Tuipulotu, Edge, USC
Tuli Tuipulotu (scouting report) is a talented defensive lineman who has some position flexibility. He plays with good strength and power and can stack defenders with his hands. He has the ability to bend and he does a nice job as a lateral mover in space.
Grade: B-
85. Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State
Daiyan Henley (scouting report) started his career as a WR at Nevada, but you would never know he was an offensive player with the ferocity that he plays with on defense. He is a little tightly wound, but he makes plays from sideline to sideline with effort and excellent straight line speed. He has unusual length and he uses it well as spot rusher who should be an effective blitzer at the next level.
Grade: B-
125. Derius Davis, WR, TCU
Derius Davis (scouting report) is a small, slender-built athlete who does not project to be a wide receiver in the NFL. He has value as a return specialist due to his speed, explosiveness and vision in the return game. He will give the Chargers a package player and speed in the return game.
Grade: C-
156. Jordan McFadden, G, Clemson
Jordan McFadden (scouting report) is an experienced player that should be best at guard in the NFL. He lacks ideal size, but he is smart and tough. Works to finish blocks and has a chance to push for playing time in year one.
Grade: C+
200. Scott Matlock, DT, Boise State
Scott Matlock (scouting report) is a good-sized player who tested well. He has an outstanding motor and works to finish to the whistle. He is a high-level character player who created buzz this spring.
Grade: C
239. Max Duggan, QB, TCU
The Chargers complete the TCU connection by adding the QB. He's got toughness, leadership and surprising running ability. His arm strength and accuracy are less than ideal, but he may be able to carve out a back up role with his intangibles.
Grade: B
