Every Chargers fan is probably tired of hearing about every offensive lineman they are linked to. After all, for a team that has had the same problems over several years, fans just want the issue fixed as quickly as possible. Now, a potential solution from the Browns has emerged.
Joel Bitonio has been one of the league’s most consistent O-linemen throughout his career. The only caveat is that for most of it, he has played with the Cleveland Browns. The former two time All Pro deserves to be playing for a legitimate contender for the rest of his career, and the Chargers could offer up that opportunity.
Familiarity and Fit in a New System
The Chargers actually have an interesting connection with Bitonio as new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel was once the Browns receivers coach. Conor Orr was quick to mention that familiarity: “Jim Harbaugh is not going to put Justin Herbert at risk again like he was forced to last season. Bitonio can spearhead the offensive line’s transition to a Mike McDaniel system—Bitonio was drafted during McDaniel’s season as the Browns’ receivers coach—and could be a critical, dependable asset amid constant injury woes.”
For the Chargers, this could all come down to who they are willing to cut. Mekhi Becton, after an absolutely abysmal season, could be a likely candidate. Bradley Bozeman, who graded as the worst center in the league, could also be gone come next season. Most importantly, there must be a decision about Zion Johnson as he approaches free agency.
Veteran Stability for a Playoff Push
Bitonio may not be the youngest or sexiest option for the Chargers by a long shot, but he represents the standard of play that the Chargers will try and hold themselves too. At 34 years of age, chances are he can still give the team a good two to three years of play and most importantly, mentor anyone the Chargers could get in the draft.
Concerns about age will certainly linger for Bitonio and potential regression in his play, but considering who the Chargers already have along their line, he may not need to worry about being the tonesetter that he had to be for the Browns throughout his career.
With the return of both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, the Chargers will boast perhaps the best tackle tandem in the NFL. All the Chargers really need is someone who can really bolster the interior with so many question marks surrounding the position.
With so many potential draft prospects for the Chargers to consider as well, it is paramount that they nail every decision they make going forward. Should someone fall to them at 22nd, they should be quick to add him. However, it will be the subtle moves they make in free agency that could be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit.
For years now, Justin Herbert has just needed better protection. With the addition of Bitonio, the Chargers can start helping him in that regard.
Christopher Sheppard Christopher Sheppard is a passionate and knowledgeable sports journalist based in Englewood, NJ pursuing a role in the sports media industry. He covers the NFL for Heavy Sports, focusing on the Dolphins, Chargers, and Buccanneers. More about Christopher Sheppard
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