Gavino Borquez, Chargers Wire
Fri, June 12, 2026 at 9:58 PM UTC
Why the number 18 will define the Chargers’ 2026 season
If the Chargers want to have success in the upcoming season, it’s imperative that the offensive line remains intact, unlike last year.
According to NFL Media’s Matt Okada, the Bolts used 18 different offensive line combinations over 17 games last year. This league-high total was nearly double the NFL average.
The Chargers were hampered by injuries, notably to offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, who missed a combined 27 games. Subpar interior play from Bradley Bozeman and Mekhi Becton also bottomed out the offense.
In response, general manager Joe Hortiz and company completely rebuilt the interior, adding seven new linemen through free agency and the draft. Slater and Alt are also expected to be ready for the start of the season.
Keeping this number low is the ultimate key to their season. If the Chargers find continuity up front, the sky is the limit for Mike McDaniel’s offense. If injuries force another massive rotation, the offense will stall.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Why the number 18 will define the Chargers’ 2026 season