NFL Mock Draft 2012: Chargers Fill Need With Mammoth O-Lineman

With the 18th pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the San Diego Chargers select Cordy Glenn, OG-OT, Georgia.

The Chargers lost two rocks of their offensive line over the past few years when left guard Kris Dielman retired March 1 and Marcus McNeill, a veteran left tackle, was released. They need help in that area so as to maintain the level set by their prolific offense in 2011.

In need of protection for QB Philip Rivers plus a road-paver for running back Ryan Mathews, the Chargers will play it safe and take the giant Glenn, a 6-5, 345-pound mauler who impressed at the Senior Bowl after 50 starts in college at left guard, left tackle and right guard. Glenn's size and ability seem to make him a best fit at guard, where he can slide in for Dielman.

Taking an offensive lineman is hard to justify so high in the draft, plus the Chargers need help at pass-rushing linebacker and cornerback plus some insurance at running back. But Glenn is not only big, he's surprisingly athletic, and on a team with an offense like San Diego's, he could be a can't-miss choice for GM A.J. Smith.

If Smith doesn't grab Glenn, he's bound to be gone before the first round is over. His main focus should be keeping his weight under control, and his status as the second-best guard in the draft should remain intact.