The Los Angeles Chargers’ decision to sign running back Najee Harris to a one-year contract on Monday prompted mixed reactions from fans, many of whom had anticipated more impactful moves during the free agency’s legal tampering period. The team’s initial approach was decidedly conservative, with limited activity in the early stages.
Los Angeles Chargers Solve O-Line Issues In New Free Agent Suggestion
It’s evident that the Jim Harbaugh-led team is prioritizing a robust rushing attack. However, the team’s offensive line presents some notable gaps. This reality has led Jason Reed of Bolt Beat to advocate for the Chargers to address this issue by signing guard Kevin Zeitler, particularly in light of the acquisition of Harris.
“As it stands right now, the Chargers are set up to run it back with [Bradley] Bozeman at center, Zion Johnson at left guard and Trey Pipkins at right guard,” Reed wrote. “If this is the starting unit the team rolls into 2025 with it will be an abject failure. Los Angeles needs offensive line help and they should look no further than Kevin Zeitler. Zeitler has strong ties to the Chargers due to his three-year stint with the Baltimore Ravens and is exactly what they need in a stopgap option.”
General manager Joe Hortiz brings a valuable familiarity with Kevin Zeitler, having worked with him during their time with the Baltimore Ravens, where Zeitler earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2023. Zeitler’s 2024 season with the Detroit Lions further solidified his reputation, as he posted an impressive 86.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, along with an 87.2 run-blocking grade.
The Chargers boast a strong tackle duo in Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, but the team’s interior offensive line requires reinforcement, particularly given Najee Harris’s predominantly north-south running style. Strengthening the interior line would create a more robust foundation for the Chargers’ rushing attack. Whether Los Angeles will address this need remains to be seen.
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