Chargers 2024 Achilles Heel Remains Biggest Concern, According To Insider

Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?

The Chargers are trying to stay afloat by reshuffling their offensive line. First-round pick Joe Alt, who was originally slated to start at right tackle, is now shifting to the left side. Harbaugh praised the rookie’s progress, saying, “He’s one of our top guys, elite player on the team. Great player. He’s been ascending as much as anybody on the team.”

That move bumps Trey Pipkins back into his more natural role at right tackle. Depth-wise, the team recently traded for Austin Deculus from the Texans, hoping he can serve as a swing tackle. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman admitted that the numbers could change as the roster evolves: “Things are fluid. Things can always change. So I don’t know that that’s the number. It might change.”

At guard, Johnson and Becton are locked in, while Bozeman is expected to open the season as the starting center. Veteran Andre James could rotate in depending on performance. Behind them, Jamaree Salyer and Deculus round out the depth.

The Chargers Bigger Picture

The Chargers’ front office spent the offseason loading up on offensive skill players, drafting running back Omarion Hampton and receiver Tre’ Harris, while also signing veterans Najee Harris, Keenan Allen, and Tyler Conklin. On paper, Herbert has more weapons than ever.

But as Harbaugh has emphasized since Day 1, the offensive line is “the tip of the spear.” If the protection falters, Herbert won’t have time to maximize those weapons, and the rushing attack could once again lag behind.

Rhim pointed out the contrast between strength and weakness: while the Chargers boast elite talent in the secondary with Derwin James Jr., Alohi Gilman, and Elijah Molden, the offensive line remains the glaring concern.

Chargers Season Preview: 2025 Outlook

The Chargers are projected to win 9.2 games, with a 55.9% chance to make the playoffs, per ESPN’s Football Power Index. But with the 11th-hardest schedule in the league, even small cracks in the offensive line could be magnified against elite AFC defenses.

Herbert, entering his sixth season, has yet to record a playoff win. To change that narrative, he’ll need protection up front — something the Chargers still haven’t guaranteed.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how quickly Joe Alt adapts to protecting Herbert’s blindside and whether Becton’s presence inside can offset the loss of Slater. If not, the “Achilles heel” Rhim warned about could once again define the Chargers’ season.