The Los Angeles Chargers, without a doubt, need a major overhaul of the interior of their offensive line this offseason. Although left guard Zion Johnson has been solid, center Bradley Bozeman and right guard Mekhi Becton have been among the worst in the league at their positions.
With both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater out for much of the season, the result has been disastrous.
However, with the news that Auburn center Connor Lew has declared for the NFL Draft, they may have received their saving grace.
Although Lew tore his ACL in October, limiting him to just seven games in his draft year, that injury could pave the way for Los Angeles to select him at the end of the first round. If they are able to capitalize upon the opportunity and add a right guard through free agency, they could turn around their offensive line in rapid fashion.
Connor Lew represents the Chargers' ideal draft pick, and he should be available for them to select
Lew stepped into a starting role as a true freshman at Auburn as a result of injury, and, in his two full seasons at the college level, proved himself as one of the NCAA's most reliable offensive linemen.
Prior to his injury, he was considered perhaps the top offensive lineman of the 2025 draft class regardless of position. Dane Brugler, The Athletic's NFL Draft expert, reflected this sentiment in his summer positional rankings:
"Whether he is climbing to the second level or working laterally to protect the pocket, Lew plays with above-average quickness and control in his movement patterns. He is tough and physical and has a solid anchor, but it’s his slide mirror coupled with his blocking awareness that stands out most.."Dane Brugler
With his injury, however, Lew is now seen as potentially a Day 2 pick, meaning that the Chargers would be well within their right to reach for him at the end of the first round.
It goes almost without saying that Bozeman needs to be replaced this offseason. According to Pro Football Focus, he has been the worst center out of all players at the position who have garnered enough snaps to receive an overall grade.
Outside of Buffalo Bills center Connor McGovern, the free agent class at the position is rather slim, and the draft could be the Chargers' best route to filling the biggest hole on their roster.
While Los Angeles could hope a tackle such as Francis Mauigoa or Kadyn Proctor falls, enabling them to shift their selection to the inside and replace Becton, Lew would be the obvious choice if he is available.