LOS ANGELES — The Chargers started Day 2 of the NFL draft Friday by getting receiving help, selecting Georgia’s Ladd McConkey with the second pick of the second round, the 34th selection overall. The Chargers made a deal with New England to swap their fifth pick for the Patriots’ second pick of the round in order to make the selection.

Ladd McConkey — wide receiver

— 6 feet, 186 pounds, Georgia, Round 2, Pick 34

— Notable: In 2023, McConkey won the Wuerffel Trophy for community service and was a finalist for the William V. Campbell Trophy, which is known as “the Academic Heisman.” He also was named to the AFCA Allstate Good Works Team for his community service work.

— Last season: He appeared in nine games with one start, finishing with 30 catches for 478 yards and two touchdowns. McConkey missed the start of the season with a back injury and also hurt his ankle late in the year.

— Why the Chargers drafted him: After trading Keenan Allen and releasing Mike Williams in March because of salary-cap issues, the Chargers had a significant need at wide receiver. Somewhat undersized, McConkey is known for his quickness off the line of scrimmage and open-field speed. He ran a 4.39-second 40 at the combine. His potential was enough that the Chargers traded with New England to move up three spots in the second round to draft him.

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