Los Angeles Chargers select Ladd McConkey in 2nd round of 2024 NFL Draft
The Los Angeles Chargers have selected Georgia wide receiver Ladd McConkey in the 2nd round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He spent the last three seasons as a top target for the Bulldogs, leading them to two consecutive national championships in 2021 and 2022.
The Chargers traded up with the New England Patriots to move a handful of spots to secure the wideout.
McConkey didn’t have huge numbers in 2023 due to injuries. But when he was healthy, McConkey was impactful, catching 30 passes for 478 yards and two touchdowns. He also had 38 rushing yards and one touchdown on two carries.
McConkey had his best season in 2022, catching 58 passes for 762 yards and seven touchdowns. He also had 134 rushing yards and two touchdowns on seven attempts. His production during the 2022 season led to him being selected to the All-SEC Second Team.
One of McConkey’s best games was the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship Game. In the 65-7 victory against TCU, McConkey caught five passes for 88 yards and two touchdowns.
McConkey played high school football at North Murray High School in Chatsworth, Georgia where he was a three-star prospect. He ranked as the No. 1,146 overall prospect and the No. 188 wide receiver in the 2020 class according to the On3 Industry Rating, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.
What NFL Draft analysts are saying about Ladd McConkey
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein provided some analysis on McConkey’s game in his recent scouting report of the wide receiver’s draft profile. Zierlein compared McConkey to Elijah Moore who currently plays fo the Cleveland Browns. McConkey’s route-running ability is a strength, but Zierlein is concerned McConkey saw limited action last season.
“If pass rushers have rush plans, McConkey has route plans that allow him to uncover on all three levels,” Zierlein wrote. “His pace and rhythm make cornerbacks more reactive than proactive. He has the footwork and body control to snap off crisp breaks and open windows for his quarterback.
“He can manipulate coverage with an advanced feel for leverage and has enough top-end speed to get past cornerbacks who are non-believers. He might not be sudden enough to beat press and will need to prove he has enough play strength to finish contested catches against tight man. McConkey’s 2023 injuries might have slowed the draft conversation about him, but his route polish, athleticism and ability to uncover over the first two levels could make him a productive slot receiver as a Day 2 pickup.”