Los Angeles Chargers Offseason Needs: Run Defense Tops The List

Dec 16, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley reacts against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers head coach Brandon Staley reacts against the Kansas City Chiefs in the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Louisiana OL Max Mitchell. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
Louisiana OL Max Mitchell. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports /

Offensive Line

Yes, the Los Angeles Chargers got a major boost from Slater and Linsley at two of the most important positions in football. The left side looks good, as Matt Feiler was a strong free agent signing last year, but they can’t be complacent in that. Bryan Bulaga was a fine swing a couple seasons ago, but health became a concern as it often has in his career. Storm Norton shouldn’t be the starter out there next season, and it’s hard to count on Bulaga.

The right side of the line needs to get right before the 2022 season. Free agency isn’t often where you look to solve the problem, as elite tackles don’t really end up on the market. Terron Armstead will be available, but it might be better to look at Trent Brown or Morgan Moses, the former of the two being younger and with less injury history. As for guard, if they really want to throw top dollar to Brandon Scherff, they have the ability to do so.

The draft will be the place to look to find the long-term answer at tackle. If Trevor Penning is someone they come away a fan of, it’s not out of the realm of possibility that he’s the pick at 17. Darian Kinnard could make sense on day two, as he could get a chance at tackle and kick inside if it doesn’t work out. Max Mitchell is the tackle to watch later. He’s a bit undersized, but plays tough and has the athleticism for pass protection.