Over the next few weeks ahead of training camp, I will continue to break down the depth chart for each Chargers position.
Next, I project what the offensive line room will look like heading into the 2024 season.
LT: Rashawn Slater
After missing most of the 2022 season with a torn biceps, Slater returned and started all regular-season games in 2023. Upon returning to the field, he was prolific in the pass-blocking department, allowing just three sacks and 38 pressures on 726 pass-block snaps. Along with continuing to be a dominant force at protecting Justin Herbert’s blindside, it’s imperative that he returns to form as a run blocker, something he was sharp at in his first season when he was named Second-Team All-Pro, especially as the offense will take a run-heavy approach.
LG: Zion Johnson
Selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, Johnson has yet to live up to his billing. This was even after he transitioned from right guard to left guard, the position he flourished in college. Johnson has the tools to be a dominant interior offensive lineman, so it’s a matter of whether it can materialize with the new coaching.
C: Bradley Bozeman
With Corey Linsley headed toward retirement due to medical issues, the Chargers needed a starting center, so they sought Bozeman to fill that void. With the Bolts emphasizing the running game, Bozeman’s strength is paving the way on the ground. His 71.6 run-blocking grade since 2021 is 11th among all Centers over that period.
RG: Trey Pipkins
After starting at right tackle the past two seasons, Pipkins is kicking inside to guard following the selection of Joe Alt with the No. 5 overall pick in April’s draft. Even though he is likely to be named the starter, Pipkins will have to compete with the starter at the position from this past season, Jamaree Salyer. Pipkins offers the size, length, athleticism and football IQ, but will the transition to the interior be smooth for him?
RT: Joe Alt
Alt was selected with the No. 5 overall pick. Despite never playing the right tackle position, he is a polished and physical lineman with great size/length, overall technique, and strength. Alt’s services will benefit Justin Herbert, who has been one of the most pressured quarterbacks since entering the league in 2020. He will also improve the ground game by being used in different blocking concepts.
Jamaree Salyer
Brenden Jaimes
Jordan McFadden
Alex Leatherwood
I have Leatherwood beating out Foster Sarell. Leatherwood played right tackle with the second team during mandatory minicamp and offers versatility as a tackle or guard.