How the Chargers can solve their offensive line woes in 2020
By Steven Haglund
Step 1: Sign a veteran right tackle
Addressing the right tackle should be one of the higher priorities for Telesco.
Sam Tevi showed flashes of being a potential long term piece in 2018, but it became abundantly clear in 2019 that he should not be anything more than a depth piece. Frankly, that is what he was drafted to be. No one expected the former sixth-round draft pick to be an unquestioned starter, but unfortunately, that is what happened.
The Chargers are expected to have around $50 Million in cap space, which could be more or less depending on how the contract extensions pan out over the next few months.
That should give them enough space to sign at least one relatively big-name player. Jack Conklin of Tennessee would be the ideal option if he does not re-sign with the Titans.
He is the youngest, and arguably the best potential option of the 2020 free-agent class. Conklin is a mauler in the run game and is listed as Pro Football Focus’ sixth-best right tackle in the league.
For reference, Ja’Wuan James was arguably the top free-agent offensive lineman and signed with the Denver Broncos this past season for around $13 million a year. So whoever signs Conklin will likely be looking to pay him a similar contract. The Chargers should be on line one.
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If they can’t get him then there are guys like Demar Dotson of Tampa Bay, Mike Remmers from the New York Giants, or Germain Ifedi of the Seattle Seahawks.
If the goal is to contend in 2020, then signing a veteran right tackle is essential to that goal. Regardless of who is playing quarterback, this position was the clear weak link of the offense and the Chargers should remedy that via free agency.