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NFL DRAFT
NFL Draft

Chargers surprise with Joey Bosa at No. 3 pick in NFL draft

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz
USA TODAY Sports
Ohio State Buckeyes defensive lineman Joey Bosa (97) leaves the field after being ejected for targeting in the first quarter against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium.

The San Diego Chargers had a surprise in store with the No. 3 pick in the NFL draft.

The Chargers selected Ohio State defensive end Joey Bosa, making him the first defensive player taken in the draft.

The 6-foot-5, 269-pound Bosa was one of college football's most productive defenders throughout his three years at Ohio State. He was a two-time All-American and had 26 career sacks, though he tallied just five in his final season.

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Bosa's testing at the NFL scouting combine amplified questions about whether he could be the prolific pass rusher many teams look for in a defensive end prospect, but he offers a well-rounded skill set and should be able to generate pressure and still hold up against the run.

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Bosa's laid-back demeanor was also under scrutiny during the draft process, but he shrugged off any concerns about his approach.

"I don’t have to change," he told USA TODAY Sports prior to the draft. “I think I’m a likable guy. Right now, I’m focused on what’s important and that’s football. Just being alone and focusing just on this. When the time comes, I’ll do what I have to do.”

In San Diego, he'll join a front in need of an upgrade. The Chargers ranked 24th with 32 sacks last season and finished 27th in rush defense.

Follow Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz on Twitter @MikeMSchwartz.

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