The Los Angeles Chargers offensive line was serviceable in 2024.
Though Justin Herbert was sacked 41 times over 17 games, seventh-most in the league, it was a slight improvement from 43 sacks in 2023. The line helped the team finish 11–6, with the offense ranking mid-pack (19th in pass yards per game) and the defense excelling. Still, run-blocking efficiency was lacking, and interior pressure remained a concern, calling for targeted offseason upgrades.
Returning Faces
Joe Alt’s rookie season was exceptional. ESPN placed him fourth 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’s steady development and calm presence, reinforcing confidence in making him the franchise’s top pick of 2024.
Meanwhile, veteran Rashawn Slater also excelled, earning a 79% run‑block win rate, top 10 among tackles. His experience complemented Alt’s 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.
In the interior, Bradley Bozeman and Zion Johnson were mediocre at best, with Bozeman being the weak link of the unit. Harbaugh, however, remains invested in both. Following the playoff loss to the Texans, it became clear that interior upgrades were necessary for the unit to take the next step.
Moving Around
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 and guard, while Bradley Bozeman appears to remain at center. This is despite fans’ concerns over his lack of productivity last season.
While the shuffle has sparked confusion among fans, Harbaugh’s 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’t solve every issue; additional refinement will be needed as the season progresses.
Incoming Champion
The Chargers’ most impactful offseason move may have been acquiring Mekhi Becton from the Super Bowl-champion Eagles. Becton landed a two-year, $20 million deal, and his 2024 season in Philadelphia offers promise. PFF gave him a 75.3 overall grade, 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, it did not meaningfully impact Philadelphia’s playoff success.
These numbers translate directly to the Chargers’ 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’ interior lacked in 2024.
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Where They Stand Among the League’s Best, and Why it Matters
Comparing the Chargers’ offensive line to the league’s best exemplifies both how far they’ve come and the progress they still need to make. 2024’s 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— respectable numbers but still short of elite status. This is respectable but just outside of the league’s upper echelon.
The key difference is consistency. While L.A. has elite tackles in Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt, both of whom rank among the top 10 at their position in pass-block efficiency, the interior trio must take a step forward to match teams like the Lions, Colts and Eagles.
That’s why the offseason moves were so critical. The addition of Mekhi Becton and positional reassignments for Bozeman and Johnson represent deliberate efforts to address interior instability.
If these changes take hold, even modestly, the Chargers could narrow the gap with elite units and significantly reduce the pressure on Justin Herbert. That reduction alone could swing close games, extend drives, and unlock the vertical passing game that’s been limited by collapsing pockets.
This is no longer just a line with potential— it is a reality. It’s one constructed with more purpose and direction than in recent years. With Pro Bowl-caliber tackles, more veteran experience, increased positional flexibility, and high-upside depth, the Chargers have created an offensive line that’s more structurally sound and aligned with Jim Harbaugh’s physical brand of football.
They’re not yet among the elite, but for the first time in several seasons, the path forward is clear. If the execution meets expectations, the 2025 Chargers offensive line could elevate from middling to high-caliber and mark a clear improvement from last season.
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