Chargers take former Michigan LB Colson

The Los Angeles Chargers selected Michigan linebacker Junior Colson in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 69 overall.

Colson is the first former Wolverines player to follow Jim Harbaugh to Los Angeles.

The Chargers lack established talent at linebacker. Denzel Perryman - who returned to the AFC West club this offseason - is the team's only proven veteran.

Colson excels against the pass, allowing just one touchdown in 725 coverage snaps since 2022, per PFF. He also racked up 256 total tackles and 2.5 sacks in 33 appearances during his three-year stint at Michigan.

Pre-draft profile

Colson's portfolio boasts a good blend of traits. The Michigan linebacker should be NFL-ready because of his ability to play downhill and drop back in coverage. He's a solid tackler who can get off blockers to go where he needs to be. Colson also has the athleticism to drop in coverage and cover ground. But he struggles with processing. He's sometimes a step slower in terms of play recognition, which occasionally leads to unusual routes when the play stretches near the sideline. His resume also lacks true splash plays. Colson has the fundamentals down, which should make him a serviceable player, but he needs to address the holes in his game.