Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh reveals expected starting offensive line that includes potential surprise for Justin Herbert’s unit
The offensive line for the Los Angeles Chargers needs to build on what they did a season ago. They have arguably the top young offensive tackle duo in football. On the interior, questions have loomed. Now, there is some clarity on who may get the starting jobs at those positions inside for Jim Harbaugh’s squad. […]
The offensive line for the Los Angeles Chargers needs to build on what they did a season ago. They have arguably the top young offensive tackle duo in football. On the interior, questions have loomed. Now, there is some clarity on who may get the starting jobs at those positions inside for Jim Harbaugh’s squad.
Chargers projected starting offensive line
According to head coach Jim Harbaugh, the projected starting offensive line for the Bolts looks like this…
- LT: Rashawn Slater
- LG: Zion Johnson
- C: Bradley Bozeman
- RG: Mekhi Becton
- RT: Joe Alt
The most notable piece to this information is on the inside of the line. The tackles were set, especially once Rashawn Slater signed a massive contract extension this offseason. Meanwhile, competition has been important when it comes to the guard spots, as well as center.
For now, Bradley Bozeman is expected to start at center. Andre James is a veteran option, too, and he was added earlier this offseason. When James was signed, many fans clamored for him to win the starting job. He’s had some impressive moments in his career, particularly with the Las Vegas Raiders. James dealt with some inconsistency last season, though, and the Raiders decided to move on.
If Bozeman does win that job, then Zion Johnson does project to start at guard most likely. That may worry some fans. Johnson worked his way to a 65.7 overall grade, via Pro Football Focus, last season. That was an upgrade in his play from years prior. His NFL career got off to a rocky start with LA, and the frustration that caused amongst fans has lingered.
The coaching staff has repeatedly echoed confidence in Johnson this offseason, though. Harbaugh made positive comments on Johnson’s Hall of Fame game performance last week as well. He played center in that game.
Expect to see that projected offensive line in Week 1, even though that is still a ways away. For now, Harbaugh believes that unit is his best five for the job in front of quarterback Justin Herbert.
