Los Angeles Chargers offensive linemen prepare for a play in the huddle. Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images

Jim Harbaugh announces needed tweak to Chargers starting offensive line

Originally posted on Los Angeles Chargers on SI
By Randy Gurzi | Last updated Aug 5, 2025 5:30 AM ET

Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh met with the media on Monday, and dove into a myriad of topics.

One of those was the offensive line, which saw some changes throughout the offseason. Los Angeles added the massive Mekhi Becton at right guard, but still wanted to see improvement on the left side.

That led to the Bolts shifting Bradley Bozeman to guard, with former first-round pick Zion Johnson trying his hand at center. The Chargers were trying to find a way to maximize Johnson’s athleticism, but the plan didn’t work.

Johnson struggled at the spot and Harbaugh announced he would be back at left guard, with Bozeman again starting at center.

Jim Harbaugh said that this is the projected starting offensive line:

LT: Rashawn Slater
LG: Zion Johnson
C: Bradley Bozeman
RG: Mekhi Becton
RT: Joe Alt pic.twitter.com/6LVYsA5JRh
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) August 4, 2025

Johnson was a first-round pick out of Boston College in 2022. He has started 49 games over three seasons for Los Angeles, but hasn’t lived up to expectations.

Because of this, the Chargers declined the fifth-year option in his rookie deal, making this a contract year for Johnson. Proving he could handle the center duties might have helped him as he seeks a new contract, but he can still prove himself at guard.

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Chargers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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