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2013 NFL Draft team needs: San Diego Chargers

Philip Rivers was sacked plenty of times in 2012, but finding a new left tackle is easier said than done with the No. 11 pick.

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The Chargers had four consecutive trips to the playoffs to finish the last decade, but haven't been back since 2009. A 7-9 season in 2012 got Norv Turner and A.J. Smith fired. With Mike McCoy and Tom Telesco now at the helm, the Chargers will look to salvage what they can out of the remaining talent on the roster.

Full Chargers NFL Draft coverage: Bolts From The Blue

The biggest part of the equation is quarterback Philip Rivers, who is on the other side of 30 and has seen a decline in numbers in recent seasons. Most expect the Chargers to look to help him through the draft by adding pieces to help protect him.

Top three needs

Offensive tackle - Only three teams in the NFL allowed more sacks than the Chargers in 2012, as Philip Rivers was hit often behind a porous offensive line. The addition of King Dunlap is a small step, but a replacement on the left side for Jared Gaither is a must.

Cornerback - The Chargers lost both starting corners from last season. Neither one was very good to begin with.

Inside linebacker - Donald Butler is a solid, young player in the Chargers defense, but he needs some help next to him as Takeo Spikes was released after the season and Demorrio Williams was allowed to walk after one season with the team.

Ideal pick: Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

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