‘Following a concerning performance in their playoff loss to the Houston Texans, where Justin Herbert faced significant pressure, the Los Angeles Chargers have prioritized strengthening their offensive line during the offseason.
A key acquisition in this effort was Mekhi Becton, whose role on the team has now been clarified. Head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that Becton will serve as the starting right guard for the Chargers, a position he held last season with the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
With Rashawn Slater at left tackle and Joe Alt at right tackle, the Chargers have solidified three of their starting offensive line positions. Becton’s imposing size, listed at 6-foot-7 and 363 pounds, coupled with Alt’s 6-foot-8, 322-pound frame, has impressed Harbaugh.
Los Angeles Chargers Offensive Line Breakdown
“It’s just hard to get around him,” Harbaugh said of Becton. “You start visualizing that size, that length on the right side of the offensive line with Mekhi there and Joe Alt.”
However, the left guard and center positions remain open, setting up a crucial storyline for the Chargers’ spring and training camp. The team is experimenting with Zion Johnson at center, a position he hasn’t played in the NFL but did work at during the 2022 Senior Bowl. “We’re really excited to see him at center and have that versatility,” Harbaugh said of Johnson.
To mitigate potential issues with Johnson’s transition, the Chargers have secured experienced alternatives. They re-signed Bradley Bozeman, their 2024 starting center, and signed Andre James, who has started 60 games at center for the Las Vegas Raiders.
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Even if Johnson successfully transitions to center, the Chargers will still need to address the left guard position. Harbaugh mentioned Andre James, Bradley Bozeman, and Jamaree Salyer as potential candidates. He also noted that Trey Pipkins III, who started at right guard last season, is “definitely” in contention and “probably be the number one guy” for left guard.
Jamaree Salyer’s struggles in the playoff loss to the Texans raise concerns about his viability as a starting left guard. While Andre James has limited positional flexibility, Harbaugh remains open to the possibility of him adapting. Bradley Bozeman’s limitations in pass protection are also a factor. Trey Pipkins III is considered a better tackle than guard.
Given these uncertainties, adding another guard, likely through the draft, appears to be a prudent move for the Chargers.