If the Los Angeles Chargers are serious about fixing their offensive line issues, especially after a season where protection breakdowns were far too common, there are a few veteran names who could make a real difference. None of these options are without risk, but all three bring something the Chargers desperately need: experience, leadership, and proven production in the trenches.
Aaron Brewer, C - Miami Dolphins
Let’s start with Aaron Brewer, who might not be the biggest name-or the biggest body-but don’t let that fool you. Brewer has quietly become one of the most efficient centers in the league since signing with Miami in 2024. While his frame might not scream “dominant lineman,” his tape and his numbers absolutely do.
In 2025, Brewer posted an eye-popping 91.5 run-blocking grade and an 87.4 overall offensive grade, according to Pro Football Focus. That’s not just good-it’s elite.
He gave up just three sacks and 26 pressures over the past two seasons, earning second-team All-Pro honors and a finalist nod for the inaugural Protector of the Year Award. That’s the kind of résumé that turns heads in front offices.
The Chargers' current center, Bradley Bozeman, has struggled in both pass protection and run blocking, ranking 31st and 18th in those categories respectively. Brewer would represent a significant upgrade at one of the most critical positions on the line.
He’s also a respected voice in the locker room, having been voted team captain in just his second year with the Dolphins. For a Chargers team looking to reset its identity under Jim Harbaugh, Brewer’s leadership and consistency could be just what they need.
Elgton Jenkins, C - Green Bay Packers
If versatility is what the Chargers are after, Elgton Jenkins should be on their radar. He’s a two-time Pro Bowler who’s lined up at every position along the offensive line during his seven-year career. That kind of flexibility is rare-and valuable, especially for a team that dealt with a revolving door of injuries last season.
Jenkins is currently rehabbing a season-ending fibula and ankle injury suffered in Week 10, which complicates things. But when healthy, he’s one of the most technically sound linemen in the league. He’s allowed just nine sacks in seven seasons-remarkable for a player who’s been asked to do it all up front.
The contract is a factor here. Jenkins is set to earn $18.5 million in 2026, and the Packers may be forced to make a tough decision, whether it’s a trade or outright release.
For the Chargers, that salary would be steep, but if they believe Jenkins can return to form, the payoff could be massive. He’d immediately raise the floor-and ceiling-of the offensive line.
Cesar Ruiz, OG - New Orleans Saints
Then there’s Cesar Ruiz, a familiar name for Jim Harbaugh. Ruiz played center at Michigan under Harbaugh before transitioning to guard in the NFL. The connection is there, and that could matter if the Chargers are looking to bring in players who already understand Harbaugh’s system and expectations.
Ruiz had a breakout year in 2024 but regressed in 2025, finishing with a 44.7 run-blocking grade-ranking 73rd out of 81 guards. That’s a steep drop-off in an area that was once considered one of his strengths. He also allowed three sacks and 19 pressures last season while missing three games with an ankle injury.
Still, Ruiz is only 26 and has 6 years of NFL experience under his belt. He’s surrendered 17 sacks and 131 pressures over that span-not ideal, but not disqualifying either.
If Harbaugh believes he can get Ruiz back to his 2024 form, there’s a case to be made for a reunion. It wouldn’t be a splashy move, but it could be a smart one, especially if the Chargers are looking to add depth with upside.
Bottom Line: The Chargers can’t afford another year of subpar offensive line play-not with a young quarterback to protect and a new coaching regime trying to build a winning foundation. Whether it’s the consistency of Brewer, the versatility of Jenkins, or the familiarity of Ruiz, each of these veterans brings something that could help stabilize the trenches in Los Angeles. The question is: how aggressive will the Chargers be in fixing a problem that’s been holding them back for far too long?