Chargers opt to gamble entire season on the growth of their offensive linemen

3 of 3

CARSON, CALIFORNIA – DECEMBER 22: Philip Rivers #17, Sam Tevi #69 and Russell Okung #76 of the Los Angeles Chargers walk off the field after a final possession interception during the fourth quarter in a 22-10 Ravens win at StubHub Center on December 22, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Chargers: Where offensive line needs to improve

This unit, consisting of the exact same players on the roster from last season, will be looking to help the offense build off these numbers:

15th in rushing yards per game
10th in passing yards per game
13th in total first downs
16th in third down percentage (39.5)
29th in pass-blocking efficiency
30th in overall offensive line rankings

Next. Examining the offensive line depth chart

It’s a lot to ask of a unit, especially when the players who project to fill out the offensive line are the same ones from 2018. The team not only believes, but expects three positions along the offensive line to improve because of the development of their drafted talent. That’s quite the gamble, and come January of this season, it’s a roll of the dice that will either make or break a very talented roster. The Chargers have shown, at least last year, that they were capable of taking on the NFL’s best teams by beating the Chiefs, Steelers, Seahawks, and Ravens on the road. But if they can never get past the Patriots, who held them to seven first half points due to an incredible 70 percent pressure rate, does it mean anything? Fans can only trust Telesco and the coaching staff, and hope this is the year the Chargers have more than just starters along the offensive line, but a truly more-than-capable starting unit.

Home/LA Chargers News