2024 NFL Draft: Top 5 Prospects for the No. 5 Overall Pick

J.J. McCarthy - Quarterback

Of course, with so many holes to fill on their roster, it's conceivable the Chargers trade down to acquire more draft capital. In that scenario, the Minnesota Vikings will likely move up to take the last remaining top-end quarterback on the board, J.J. McCarthy. 

The former Michigan standout had a concerning combine but remains a highly coveted prospect. The Vikings have struggled to maximize output from the quarterback spot, making a marriage with McCarthy a probable outcome in the upcoming NFL Draft. 

Malik Nabers - Wide Receiver

Still, it's more than likely that Harrison Jr. falls off the board before Jim Harbaugh walks to the podium to announce the first pick. But if the top wideout is already selected, Malik Nabers is a solid consolation pick. 

Nabers excelled with the LSU Tigers for three years but found his actual ceiling more recently. In his sophomore campaign, Nabers went off for 1,569 receiving yards and 14 scores, highlighting his ability as an offensive catalyst.

This could be a match made in heaven for Justin Herbert, who has an excellent track record of building chemistry with wide receivers.

Joe Alt - Offensive Lineman

The Chargers can't expect Herbert to make deep throws unless they better protect their quarterback. Widely regarded as the top lineman in the NFL Draft, Joe Alt could make his presence felt at SoFi Stadium come September. 

The All-American spent three seasons insulating Notre Dame Fighting Irish pivots, earning an Outland Trophy nomination in his final season. Alt's game performances were matched by his combined performance, ensuring he will be a top-ten selection in Detroit.

Quinyon Mitchell - Cornerback

Things started to unravel early for Los Angeles last season. Chargers fans remember many points from last season when they wished they had a better secondary. If the Chargers' brass wanted to prioritize it, they could take the best cornerback available in the NFL Draft with their first pick. 

Quinyon Mitchell excelled in every facet of the game in four seasons with the Toledo Rockets. Twice named as an All-American, Mitchell was the primary defender against the opponents' top pass-catcher in virtually every game. If Harbaugh prioritizes defensive players, Mitchell will be all over his radar. 

J.J. McCarthy - Quarterback

Of course, with so many holes to fill on their roster, it's conceivable the Chargers trade down to acquire more draft capital. In that scenario, the Minnesota Vikings will likely move up to take the last remaining top-end quarterback on the board, J.J. McCarthy. 

The former Michigan standout had a concerning combine but remains a highly coveted prospect. The Vikings have struggled to maximize output from the quarterback spot, making a marriage with McCarthy a probable outcome in the upcoming NFL Draft.