Draft Analysis: San Diego Chargers
Posted: Thursday June 11, 1998 05:59 PM
Ryan
Leaf 1st round, 2nd overall
Quarterback, Washington
State
Comments: Will be the starter from Day 1. Has a
solid rebuilt offensive line to give him time, but marginal weapons at the
receiver position. You get the feeling he will be working all season to
overcome the lack of weapons surrounding him. Mikhael
Ricks 2nd round, 59th overall
Receiver, Stephen F.
Austin
Comments: Better be the real deal, because Chargers
gave up another first-round pick to acquire him. Has excellent size and
deceptive speed, but didn't play against a high level of competition at the
college level ... Chargers love his athleticism and potential to be a big
physical target for QB Ryan Leaf ... he has had some injury problems in his
past and he will be a raw player, but there is a huge upside here ... this
guy needs to become a great player because the Chargers gave up a lot to
get him. Cedric Harden 5th round, 126th overall
Defensive end, Florida A&M
Comments: Somewhat unknown
player that wasn’t on a lot of NFL boards ... the Chargers saw something
they liked in spring workouts ... former tight end that has only one year
of experience at defensive end, but he does have good athletic ability and
defensive end size ... they are hoping he can develop into an edge rusher
with some quickness and speed off the corner. Clifford
Ivory 6th round, 155th overall
Cornerback, Troy
State
Comments: Somewhat of a need pick because of
injuries and movement in the Charger secondary ... a very physical player
that loves to challenge receivers and has played a lot of tight man-to-man
coverage ... good overall ball skills and plays with a lot of confidence
and cockiness ... could be nice sleeper-type pick. Jon
Haskins 7th round, 194th overall
Linebacker,
Stanford
Comments: Chargers need young middle linebacker
for future and Haskins will have chance to develop ... somewhat of an
overachiever that lacks great athletic ability and speed but he does play
with good strength and power ... smart player that goes all out on every
snap of the ball ... will battle last year’s pick Toran James for backup middle
linebacker role. Kio
Sanford 7th round, 234th overall
Receiver, Kentucky
Comments: Smurf receiver who may make some things happen
as a No. 3 guy in the slot. Has deceptive speed, and is a serious threat in
the open field. Has to contribute as a rookie ... if he makes this team it
will be because of his special teams, and kick/punt return ability.
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