Los Angeles Chargers select Jordan McFadden in 5th round of 2023 NFL Draft

A stalwart along the Clemson offensive line for three seasons had a dream come true when his name was called in the 2023 NFL Draft. And the Los Angeles Chargers made Jordan McFadden a part of their future plans with the No. 156 overall pick pick in the fifth round of the draft.

A five-year player and three-year starter at Clemson, McFadden played both right and left tackle for the Tigers. He played 2,960 career snaps, third most all-time for a Clemson offensive lineman and was a two-time All-ACC honoree. He was on multiple College Football Playoff teams while playing at Clemson and became a steady, solid option on the offensive line.

As a recruit, McFadden earned three-stars and rated as the No. 802 player in the 2018 signing class according to the On3 Industry Ranking. He was the No. 63 OT in the class and the No. 14 player in the state of South Carolina.

What NFL Draft analysts are saying about McFadden

NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein thinks McFadden can develop into a starting caliber player, just not at tackle. Mostly because of a lack of length — specifically arm length — McFadden projects as a guard.

Zierlein sees the potential there, though.

“McFadden lacks the height/length to stay at tackle in the NFL, but he has the broad frame and run-blocking acumen to fit as a guard. He’s firm and accurate into blocks using good footwork to drive and turn opponents. He lacks ideal mass and will get dumped by twitchy run defenders at times. His protection experience at tackle is a big plus in his favor, but he still needs to fire his hands with better efficiency and from a tighter track. McFadden is a reliable prospect lacking desired measurables but has the chance to become a good backup with eventual starter potential,” Zierlein said.

There are some dings on McFadden, notably staying disciplined with his pad level. Playing too high against NFL pass rushers would spell disaster, and Zierlein noted that McFadden had some trouble with Jared Verse of Florida State, a future NFL edge rusher in all likelihood. Further, some hand placement issues have caused some problems for McFadden as he tries to keep defenders in front of him.

A regional NFC scout told NFL.com that McFadden has “been a consistent player, but he levels off when he plays against better competition.”

With some cleaner technique, though, McFadden has the ability to stick around the league as an interior lineman.