Jim Harbaugh reveals Chargers' starting offensive line for 2025 season
On Monday, Harbaugh identified 'the best five right now" to protect quarterback Justin Herbert, with that being Rashawn Slater at left tackle, Zion Johnson at left guard, Bradley Bozeman at center, Mekhi Becton at right guard, and Joe Alt at right tackle.
This announcement provides some clarity to what had been a competition along the interior of the offensive at the center and left guard positions, with Johnson and Bozeman fighting for starting roles.
Johnson, who had never played center in college or the NFL, was seen as a potential option for the position. The coaching staff asked him to work on his snapping in the offseason, and they rotated him in the spring. But in the end, Johnson played center for three padded practices and 12 snaps in the Hall of Fame Game last Thursday.
While Johnson is likely going to be a mainstay at left guard, Harbaugh also mentioned that he will still see snaps at center during the upcoming preseason game against the Saints this Sunday, mentioning the team's commitment to building versatility among its offensive linemen.
Johnson started all 17 regular-season games and the lone playoff game against the Texans at left guard. While he managed to stay healthy, his play wasn't inspiring. Johnson's struggles primarily came in pass protection, especially when it came to picking up stunts.
Meanwhile, Bozeman started every game at center and led the team in offensive snaps with 1,057 in 2024. While he was on the field for nearly every snap, Bozeman experienced some struggles, particularly in pass protection, too. He finished with a 53.1 pass-blocking grade, which ranked 53rd out of 64 qualifying centers.
With the team being content with running it back with Johnson and Bozeman at the same positions from last season, they must show improvements for the offense to be the well-oiled machine they're hoping for.
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