Chargers Draft Talk: Chance Warmack

Jan 7, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide guard Chance Warmack (65) in action against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2013 BCS Championship game at Sun Life Stadium. Alabama won 42-14. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

It’s no secret to anyone that the San Diego Chargers need help on the offensive line. Most likely, the Bolts will pursue a guy in the draft. At first glance, the top targets have been tackles Eric Fisher and Lane Johnson. But lately a new top target on the offensive line has emerged. Alabama’s guard, Chance Warmack.

Not too long ago, Warmack was listed as a possible second round pick. But with the season over and film being passed around, Warmack has been shooting up draft boards everywhere. NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock made a bold claim about the Alabama prodigy.

"The best player I’ve seen on tape is the guard from Alabama, Chance Warmack. Now, he’s not going number one, but he’s the best football player [in the draft]. – Mike Mayock, NFL Network"

Guards don’t usually go in the first round but teams are going to freak out if Warmack falls into their lap.  The 6’3″, 320 pound guard has been compared to Carl Nicks. He’s an excellent run blocker. Just take a look at Trent Richardson and Eddie Lacey’s numbers over the past three seasons and where it took the Alabama offense. He’s a huge anchor in the middle of an offensive line that can keep opposing defensive tackles out of the backfield. The SEC is known for its great pass rushers and Warmack has done an outstanding job fighting them off during his time at Alabama.

During his senior year, he only allowed 3.5 sacks in 287 pass attempts and only missed seven assignments in a total of 728 snaps. He also led the team with 37 pancake blocks.

His only weakness is the fact that he stops moving his feet at times. He tries to rely on his strength more than his footwork. That’s something any NFL team could overlook given his great upside.

Do you think the Chargers should go after Warmack? Comment below.

You can follow Matt on Twitter @Welch1048.