Chargers' offensive line climbs massively in PFF preseason rankings

One long-lasting issue that has repeatedly plagued the LA Chargers in previous years has been bad offensive line play. There were far too many seasons with Philip Rivers at quarterback in which the Chargers failed to protect the star quarterback.

Justin Herbert got the same treatment in his rookie season and that caused the Bolts to pour resources into rebuilding the offensive line. That led to one of the best units in the sport in 2021 that unfortunately took a step back in 2022 because of injuries.

However, 2023 is a new year and Chargers fans can be excited about the offensive line that will be protecting Herbert. This isn't just Chargers fan bias, either, as the Chargers have been ranked as one of the best offensive lines in the sport.

Pro Football Focus gives the Chargers the ninth-best offensive line in the NFL

Sam Monson of PFF broke down all 32 offensive lines in the NFL and compared them to the most recent rankings on the outlet. The Chargers were one of the biggest climbers in the entire sport, checking in with the ninth spot.

This is a rise of eight spots from the last iteration of the offensive line rankings. Los Angeles has gone from having a league-average offensive line (at best) to almost undoubtedly having a top-10 offensive line in the sport.

There is simply so much talent in the starting five on the offensive line. Rashawn Slater and Corey Linsley as bonafide All-Pros who are among the best in the sport at their positions. Trey Pipkins (who re-signed on a team-friendly deal) has proven to be an above-average right tackle and Jamaree Salyer established a very high ceiling in year one.

The "worst" member of the starting offensive line is Zion Johnson, who is moving to left guard to play between Slater and Linsley. Johnson had rookie bumps and bruises in 2022 but also showed a lot of potential that can be built upon.

The best part about this offensive line is the fact that it is locked in for another three seasons at the least. It has been a long time since the Chargers have had an offensive line this talented that is also going to stick together for multiple years. That kind of continuity is what separates the elite offensive lines from the great ones.

It might not be elite yet but the Chargers' offensive line is great and could break down that barrier in no time.