As the highly anticipated NFL Draft approaches, the Los Angeles Chargers find themselves faced with numerous questions and uncertainties as they prepare for their first year together under the leadership of coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz. With just one day remaining, we take a closer look at the Chargers' draft guide for 2024, predict their potential picks, and highlight their key needs.

One major topic of discussion revolves around the Chargers' preference for trading down from their current position at No. 5 in the first round. The goal is to select an offensive lineman, but the team is looking for an attractive trade offer in order to make this move. The outcome of the four picks before their turn will play a significant role in determining which teams they can negotiate with and the type of return they may receive.

However, if the Chargers are unable to find a suitable trade partner and have to make their pick at No. 5, the best player available strategy will be put to the test. With the possibility of four quarterbacks being selected in the top four picks, Ohio State receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. could be available. Passing on Harrison by trading out would be one scenario, but passing on him by selecting a different player at No. 5, such as Notre Dame tackle Joe Alt, would raise questions about the Chargers' approach.

Another intriguing aspect to watch is when the Chargers choose to address their receiver position. Should they select an offensive lineman in the first round, their second-round pick at No. 37 could be an opportunity to secure a quality receiver. Players like Georgia's Ladd McConkey, Texas' Adonai Mitchell, and Florida State's Keon Coleman may be potential options in the second round. Alternatively, the Chargers might wait until the third round to target players like Oregon's Troy Franklin or Washington's Ja'Lynn Polk.

While the Chargers have garnered attention for their offensive needs, their defensive positions are equally important. They have multiple needs on the interior of their defensive line, at inside linebacker, cornerback, and safety behind their starters. How they address these defensive needs through the draft and undrafted free agents will provide insight into the team's rebuilding process and the priorities set by Hortiz and Harbaugh.

Center was a glaring need for the Chargers before free agency, but the signing of Bradley Bozeman has somewhat alleviated that concern. However, depth and reliable competition are still needed at the position. Should the Chargers trade back and acquire a first-round pick in the 20s, they could target centers like Duke's Graham Barton, Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson, or West Virginia's Zach Frazier.

Overall, the Chargers' approach in the upcoming draft will reveal their organizational philosophy and how they intend to build their roster. With many uncertainties still lingering, all eyes will be on Hortiz and Harbaugh as they make their moves on draft night. The stakes are high, and the choices made will set the course for the Chargers' future success.

This article was written by Daniel Popper and originally appeared in The Athletic.