The Chargers have made some moves in free agency, but there are still key areas that need attention. With questions lingering at guard and the departure of edge rusher Odafe Oweh, the upcoming draft could be pivotal in bolstering protection for Justin Herbert and finding a new defensive playmaker.
Free agency often reveals a team’s priorities, and for the Los Angeles Chargers, it’s been a mixed bag. Some needs have been addressed, while others have emerged, setting the stage for how the team might approach the NFL Draft.
The offensive line is a major talking point. The Chargers signed guard Cole Strange to a two-year deal, reuniting him with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
Strange, who has starting experience and knows McDaniel’s system, brings some depth. However, his recent performances have been inconsistent, and his pass-blocking grades were among the lower tier for starting guards last season.
While Strange adds competition, he doesn’t fully solve the issue of protecting franchise quarterback Justin Herbert. Last season saw Herbert endure too many hits, making his protection a top priority for the Chargers’ front office.
Adding to the challenge, the Chargers released guard Mekhi Becton in a cost-saving move that freed up nearly $10 million. This decision leaves even more uncertainty at guard as the draft approaches. Strange’s addition feels more like a temporary fix rather than a long-term solution.
Given this situation, it would be surprising if the Chargers didn’t target an offensive guard early in the draft. This year’s class of interior linemen offers some promising prospects, and the Chargers might aim for a player ready to start immediately. To make the most of Herbert’s prime, they can’t risk settling for mediocre offensive line play again.
On the defensive side, losing edge rusher Odafe Oweh to the Washington Commanders on a hefty four-year, $100 million contract is a significant blow. Oweh was a key pass-rushing force last season, and his departure leaves a noticeable gap.
Although the Chargers re-signed veteran Khalil Mack, he’s in the latter stages of his career. Relying solely on Mack for pressure could be risky, especially in a division filled with top-tier quarterbacks.
This makes targeting an edge rusher in the first round a logical move.
If the Chargers stay put in the first round, selecting a top-tier edge prospect would be wise. A young pass rusher could initially rotate with Mack and eventually become a primary defensive threat alongside Tuli Tuipulotu. Consistent quarterback pressure is crucial for sustainable defensive success, and the Chargers might need to rebuild this aspect after Oweh’s exit.
In the end, free agency hasn’t resolved many of the Chargers’ biggest issues-it has simply highlighted them. Offensive guard and edge rusher now stand out as the most pressing needs on the roster.