Los Angeles Chargers

Mel Kiper has the Chargers snagging a tackle at No. 3 overall

Published Jan. 15, 2016 12:51 a.m. ET

foxsports

Mel Kiper Jr. sees the Chargers selecting a blocker for Philip Rivers' blindside.

So, with the third overall pick, the notorious draftnik predicts the team will take Mississippi's Laremy Tunsil, a blue-chip left tackle prospect.

Kiper, via ESPN:

"Ken Whisenhunt is back at offensive coordinator for the Chargers, and the immediate need for this team is going to be figuring out a way to keep Philip Rivers upright. Injuries have decimated the Chargers’ offensive line, and adding Tunsil means they get an immediate starter. This kid is a flat-out gifted left tackle prospect, the kind of player who could go No. 1 overall to Tennessee. Get him here and you’ll be pleased."

Tunsil would make one helluva pick to open up the team's Los Angeles venture. The 6-foot-5, 315-pound former Rebel is widely regarded as the best blocking prospect in years, let alone his class.

Rivers might weep tears of joy if this pick comes to pass. His left tackle, King Dunlap, is talented but often-injured. His right tackle, Joe Barksdale, will test the free agent market.