The Los Angeles Chargers still have their start quarterback but changes have been made to the rest of the offensive positions, changes that will promote a new direction for the team. But one thing will remain constant with the team's new head coach. Jim Harbaugh will have a stout offensive line.
That was made clear when the team chose to draft Joe Alt with the No. 5 selection rather than to target the wide receiver position that most thought they would do.
Harbaugh believes in having his offensive line be a bully, one capable of dominating the line of scrimmage to get the running game on track. In theory, that will make Justin Herbert a better and more efficient quarterback.
Looking at the roster, the Chargers have a chance to have one of the best offensive lines in the league.
Los Angeles Chargers offensive line depth chart ahead of training camp
Starters
Tackles: Rashawn Slater, Joe Alt
Guards: Zion Johnson, Trey Pipkins
Center: Bradley Bozeman
The key to this group will be if Pipkins can switch to guard and be effective. If he can, this unit could be elite. If not, the team can pivot to Jamaree Salyer and float Pipkins as trade bait.
The concern around the team seems to be at the center position where Bradley Bozeman will replace the retired Corey Linsley. Bozeman has played within an offense run by Greg Roman before, so that should help him convert to his new team.
Second-String
Tackles: Alex Leatherwood, Foster Sarell
Guards: Jamaree Salyer, Jordan McFadden
Center: Brenden Jaimes
This second string is a great group and shows the depth of this offensive line.
The most interesting name here is Alex Leatherwood, a former first-round pick of the Las Vegas Raiders. If the Chargers can get the best out of him, he could be a great option as a swing tackle for the team despite the struggles he's encountered in his career thus far.
For some guys being on the right team, with the right coaching, and having the right situation can make all the difference. Hoping Alex Leatherwood can make the most of this opportunity and add some solid depth to our line. 💪🏈⚡️ pic.twitter.com/eoMENLZBUe
— Brian Rick (@Chargerswin2024) July 3, 2024
The rest
Tyler McClellan
Willis Patrick
Brent Laing
Bucky Williams
Karsen Barnhart
The team has several undrafted players in that last wave of offensive linemen, the most notable of which is Karsen Barnhart, who played for Harbaugh at Michigan. He has a chance to make the final 53-man roster but should start his career on the practice squad, at worst.