San Diego Chargers: 2013 Prospects the Chargers Should Already Be Scouting

After having arguably their best draft since 2006, the San Diego Chargers are already focused on next year.

So who should they be looking at? It's early, and only time can tell what positions they really need to improve. As of now, I see them searching for their future defensive tackle to replace the aging Antonio Garay. The middle linebacker position should also be assessed because Takeo Spikes doesn't have many years left as well.

They could even look for their next star wide receiver. Malcom Floyd is 30, and the Chargers lack a pure No. 1 receiver. They are going to play this season with two No. 2 receivers in Floyd and Robert Meachem. An explosive receiver could make San Diego's young receiving core dominant.  

Cornerback also comes to mind. Quentin Jammer, much like Garay and Spikes, is close to the end. Cason and Gilchrist haven't been consistent enough to take over for Jammer once he's gone.

San Diego is a talented team. Their offense is versatile by both their passing and running game. The Chargers won't know their needs until after the season, but here are some players that they should keep their eye on.

Manti Te'o, ILB, Notre Dame

Manti is an outstanding talent. He plays downhill and has a speed burst when attacking the ball carrier. He's an athletic and smart player who will be taken in the first round. The Chargers could use another Junior Seau at middle linebacker, and Manti Te'o could be that guy. 

Marquess Wilson, WR, Washington State

 Vincent Jackson is gone, and the Chargers are in need of a new No. 1 receiver. Marquess Wilson is 6'4'' and makes most of his catches over defensive backs much like Jackson. He'll work on his quickness and speed this season to evolve his game, but his long frame ultimately allows him to make contested catches.

Johnthan Banks, CB, Mississippi State

This guy is NFL ready. Banks has the ability to play either cornerback or safety given his versatility. He runs a 4.5 on average, so the speed is there as well. San Diego could really use a talented corner in the near future and Banks would be a perfect fit. 

Kawann Short, DT, Purdue

 Short was considered a second- to third-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, but declared that he would stay one more year and enter the 2013 draft. He has tremendous footwork and is great at getting through the front line. Short uses his hands well to free up space. Although he usually doesn't play the nose tackle position, Short has the ability to transition.

As mentioned earlier, the Chargers will not know who or which position to focus on until after the upcoming season.