Here’s a look at the perceived draft needs of the San Diego Chargers, with heavy input from Matt Miller and David Gardner of NewEraScouting.com. 

Inside linebacker:  Stephen Cooper has not had a good offseason, and will miss the first four games of the 2008 season after failing a drug test for ephedra.  Matt Wilhelm is capable, but not spectacular.  Branden Siler has amazing potential, but has yet to put it all together.  The team wants to get better here, and they have not been shy about their hope to grab a starter at inside linebacker early in the draft.

Right Tackle:  Jeromy Clary replaced Shane Olivea at right tackle, but the team wants more.  Gosder Cherilus has been seen in the San Diego area, and his huge frame would go nicely on a mammoth Charger offensive line.  The team wants to continue to run the football, adding a big right tackle will only aid in this goal.

Running back:  With no second-round pick, the Chargers will be adding depth later than most teams.  Michael Turner’s departure leaves a void behind LaDainian Tomlinson, who is coming off his first major injury.  The team loved the one-two punch of L.T. and Turner, and their preference would be to add another strong, quick back to replace Turner.

Nose tackle:  Jamal Williams is a three-time Pro Bowl selection, but at 31 he is nearing the end of his career.  And 3-4 defenses can never have enough depth at nose tackle, so adding a back up would only prolong the brilliant career of Williams.

Safety:  Eric Weddle should move into a starting role at free safety this season, with Clinton Hart remaining the strong safety.  Losing Marlon McCree hurts, but it also forces Weddle into the starting lineup.  The team lacks depth here and prefers to fill their special teams with linebackers and safeties.  Adding late round depth is a smart move.