Chargers Select R.J. Mickens in 6th Round: Quick Analysis of LA's Latest Pick

The Los Angeles Chargers they made their eighth selection 2025 NFL Draft , choosing Clemson safety R.J. Mickens with the 214th overall selection.

Standing at 6 feet tall with a weight of 199 pounds, Mickens performed impressively at the Combine. His time was recorded at 4.49 seconds for the 40-yard dash, indicating he could provide valuable backup support in the Chargers’ defensive backfield following Derwin James and Elijah Molden. In 2024, as a starter in 13 out of his team’s games known as the Tigers, Mickens accumulated an impressive tally of 75 total tackles, including six tackles resulting in losses, along with contributing two interceptions and breaking up seven passes.

Lance Zierlein of NFL.com acknowledges Mickens' skill in playing quickly And adhere to the basics when it comes to addressing.

Mickens possesses an appealing combination of stature and reach for his transition to professional football. As the offspring of a previous NFL cornerback, he exhibits proficient anticipatory skills before snaps and instinctive reactions afterward. His understanding of the field enhances his effectiveness in zone defense; however, he lacks quickness and speed, making precise techniques and well-timed maneuvers essential for excelling in man-to-man coverage. His knack for adjusting chase angles and effectively breaking down as a tackler sets him apart from peers in this draft pool. While he demonstrates solid form when bringing players down, his tackling strength is somewhat modest. At the NFL Scouting Combine, Mickens addressed concerns regarding his swiftness with a respectable 4.49-second 40-yard dash time, ensuring that his reliability in interpreting and reacting to plays remains strong.

As Zierlein pointed out, R.J. is the offspring of ex-NFL cornerback Ray Mickens, who had most of his professional tenure with the New York Jets.

— Enjoy complimentary coverage of the Chargers from the Los Angeles Chargers on SI. —

Latest Updates from the L.A. Chargers:

Chargers select South Carolina EDGE Kyle Kennard with their 4th-round pick: Immediate assessment of LA's choice

Right away, the instant draft grade shows that the Chargers hit a home run by selecting Kyle Kennard.

7 Top Available Players for the Los Angeles Chargers on Day Three

The Chargers' General Manager, Joe Horowitz, hit another home run during the draft day, proving once again why supporters should have faith in their rebuilding strategy.

The Chargers have hit the jackpot with an early draft grade for Jamaree Caldwell.

This article was originally published on www.si.com/nfl/chargers as Chargers draft R.J. Mickens: Instant analysis of LA's 6th-round pick .