There are few positions outside of the quarterback that are imperative to a teams success. But building a strong offensive line can be the difference between winning and losing out on the field. The Los Angeles Chargers have been building their offensive line to protect franchise quarterback Justin Herbert and it has seen some challenges. But as we head into 2023, there may be some hope yet.
Pro Football Focus has labeled the Chargers offensive line as a top-10 unit around the NFL. They come in at number nine on the list and it's a testament to the work that the front office has done of late. This is high praise for Los Angeles and shows that their plan to build around Herbert is working.
Left tackle Rashawn Slater had his coming out party as a rookie in 2021 and became a cornerstone for the team. 2022 was meshed with injuries but while he was out on the field, Slater was as advertised. He received a PFF grade of 84.0 and only allowed one sack in the 175 snaps that he took. Slater will be relied upon once again this season as a major piece to their offensive line.
Jamaree Salyer broke onto the scene after replacing the injured Slater last season and it earned him a starting spot. Moving over to guard shouldn't be an issue and he earned himself a PFF grade of 69.2 last season. He had just three penalties all year long, which may have been the most impressive feat for a rookie.
Anchoring the middle is center Corey Linsley. He posted a PFF grade of 74.2 and gave up no sacks last season. Linsley is the veteran of this line and will be relied upon to rally the troops as the year goes on.
And rounding out the projected starting line are Zion Johnson at guard and Trey Pipkins at right tackle. Johnson posted a PFF grade of 64.8 as a rookie and will look to improve this season. Pipkins is looked at as the weakest link of this Chargers line but he has room to improve and the young player has a chance to show what he can do.
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