The Los Angeles Chargers offensive line was serviceable in 2024.<\/p>\n
Though Justin Herbert was sacked 41 times over 17 games, seventh-most<\/a> in the league, it was a slight improvement from 43 sacks in 2023<\/a>. The line helped the team finish 11\u20136, with the offense ranking mid-pack (19th in pass yards per game) and the defense excelling<\/a>. Still, run-blocking efficiency was lacking, and interior pressure remained a concern, calling for targeted offseason upgrades.<\/p>\n Returning Faces<\/p>\n Joe Alt\u2019s rookie season was exceptional. ESPN placed him fourth<\/a> among all NFL tackles in pass-block win rate, at 94%, over 365 plays. That places him alongside elite names like Tristan Wirfs and Lane Johnson. Harbaugh has praised Alt\u2019s steady development and calm presence<\/a>, reinforcing confidence in making him the franchise\u2019s top pick of 2024.<\/p>\n Meanwhile, veteran Rashawn Slater also excelled, earning a 79% run\u2011block win rate<\/a>, top 10 among tackles. His experience complemented Alt\u2019s breakout year and helped anchor an offensive line still finding its identity. Slater and Alt formed the foundation of the offensive line and were arguably its only consistent bright spot.<\/p>\n In the interior, Bradley Bozeman<\/a> and Zion Johnson<\/a> were mediocre at best, with Bozeman being the weak link<\/a> of the unit. Harbaugh, however, remains invested in both<\/a>. Following the playoff loss to the Texans, it became clear that interior upgrades were necessary for the unit to take the next step.<\/p>\n<\/p>\n Moving Around<\/p>\n The interior of the offensive line underwent significant movement this offseason, with positional adjustments aimed at improving cohesion. Zion Johnson has taken snaps at both center<\/a> and guard, while Bradley Bozeman appears to remain at center. This is despite fans\u2019 concerns over his lack of productivity<\/a> last season.<\/p>\n While the shuffle has sparked confusion among fans, Harbaugh\u2019s track record warrants patience. Johnson working with Justin Herbert and taking reps, despite having no prior experience at center, signifies that the coaching staff is committed to creating the best possible lineup for the upcoming season. Still, a positional switch alone won\u2019t solve every issue; additional refinement will be needed as the season progresses.<\/p>\n Incoming Champion<\/p>\n The Chargers\u2019 most impactful offseason move may have been\u00a0acquiring Mekhi Becton from the Super Bowl-champion Eagles<\/a>. Becton landed a two-year, $20 million deal<\/a>, and his 2024 season in Philadelphia offers promise. PFF gave him a 75.3 overall grade<\/a>, ranking him 21st among 136 qualifying guards, with notable grades of 64.2 in pass blocking (56th) and 74.7 in run blocking (19th). In over 900 offensive snaps, Becton allowed just three sacks and 24 pressures. While his consistency dipped slightly in the postseason<\/a>, it did not meaningfully impact Philadelphia\u2019s playoff success.<\/p>\n These numbers translate directly to the Chargers\u2019 needs. Becton will immediately bolster both run-block efficiency and interior pass protection. His ability to limit pressure and excel in the run game brings the consistency the Chargers\u2019 interior lacked in 2024.<\/p>\n Where They Stand Among the League\u2019s Best, and Why it Matters<\/p>\n Comparing the Chargers\u2019 offensive line to the league\u2019s best exemplifies both how far they\u2019ve come and the progress they still need to make. 2024\u2019s top units, such as the Broncos and Chiefs, posted pass-block win rates of 73% and 69%, respectively, with run-block win rates of 74% and 73%. By comparison, the Chargers recorded a 63% PBWR and 72% RBWR\u2014 respectable numbers but still short of elite status. This is respectable but just outside of the league\u2019s upper echelon.<\/p>\n