LA Chargers: Grading the 2020 offensive line
LA Chargers’ center:
C Mike Pouncey
With Pouncey officially being cleared to play, there’s no doubt that he will be the starter at center. The question is ultimately about his health. Can a 31-year-old who just had neck surgery stay healthy at the center position?
If he does stay healthy, that’s a pretty great development for the Chargers. Pouncey isn’t quite what he used to be earlier in his career, but he’s still a better pass blocker than the other options at center. He played very well in the Houston and Indianapolis games prior to his injury. Out of all five games prior to the neck injury, Pouncey gave up zero sacks and just two hits.
Another question other than age or injury has to be Pouncey’s future. 2020 is the last year on his deal. There’s a possibility that the Chargers re-sign him, but he’d need to really show out in contract year.
I’m more confident with in the center position than left guard. Pouncey is still a good center, even if he’s not quite what he was in his peak Miami days. Even if he were to just return to his 2018 blocking form, it would be a great improvement for the Chargers. He was one of the leaders and crucial parts of that playoff team.
The Chargers’ contingency plan if he does get hurt should be to start Quessenberry. Keeping Feeney at left guard instead of changing positions for another season would be optimal.