The LA Chargers took a step forward in upgrading their offensive line this offseason by signing right guard Mekhi Becton. But even with that signing, they're still currently in a position to potentially run back two-thirds of their interior offensive line.
Last season's starting left guard Zion Johnson, and starting center Bradley Bozeman, will get their opportunities to lock down the center spot. Andre James, who the Chargers signed to a one-year deal after he was released by the Las Vegas Raiders, is also in the mix.
General manager Joe Hortiz was asked about the offensive line during his media availability Thursday. Hortiz praised the offensive linemen who frustrated Chargers fans last season, which was step one of the cagey comment.
"We got better," Hortiz started. "I love Brad (Bozeman). Been with him for five of his years in the NFL. Did a great job for us last year. Zion (Johnson) is working at center as well, Bradley has played left guard, you know. Andre (James) has played guard. Zion has played guard but is working at center like I said. Pip (Trey Pipkins) has shown he can play guard and tackle. I think it creates a great competitive environment and really strengthens us as a whole."
Joe Hortiz's offensive line comments spark backlash from Chargers fans
Hortiz went on to clarify that James has gotten work at guard in the league while primarily playing center as his natural position. "It's not something he's foreign to and unwilling to do, so again, let them go out there and compete. They're all great dudes. They're all great teammates. They're going to add to the fiber of the O-Line. And that's what you want, you want a good strong unit that works together.
On if running back some of the key interior offensive linemen was enough of an improvement from last season, Hortiz issued a blunt defense of his players.
"I thought we were pretty good last season. 11 wins, right?"Chargers GM Joe Hortiz
While perhaps not what fans will want to hear after the implosion of the offensive line during the Houston playoff game, Hortiz and a Jim Harbaugh-led regime will never throw their own players under the bus.
Not to mention, the NFL Draft is next week. Somewhat cagey, protective answers are to be expected in this sort of media availability. What will be telling is if the Chargers make picks along the offensive line in this year's class.
Next week will tell us a lot about the fate of the Chargers' 2025 offensive line group.