Los Angeles Chargers are anticipated to make a significant move to strengthen their offensive line by targeting a veteran guard in the upcoming free agency. According to Connor Orr from Sports Illustrated, the team is likely to focus on upgrading the guard positions, especially with potential cuts of players like Bradley Bozeman and Mekhi Becton.
In his bold predictions for all 32 NFL teams, Orr suggests that the Chargers will pursue Joel Bitonio, a seasoned guard currently with the Cleveland Browns. The decision comes as Jim Harbaugh aims to protect quarterback Justin Herbert more effectively than last season, when the offensive line struggled with injuries.
Bitonio”s experience could be invaluable as the Chargers transition to a new system under offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. Having been drafted during McDaniel”s tenure as the Browns” receivers coach, Bitonio is familiar with the type of offensive scheme McDaniel implements. This familiarity could facilitate a smoother integration into the Chargers” offensive line.
At 35 years old, Bitonio is contemplating retirement, yet he has proven to be a durable player, maintaining performance levels reminiscent of his earlier playing days. Over the past decade, he has been a cornerstone of the Browns” offensive line, earning recognition as the eighth-best pass-blocking guard according to PFF in the previous season. Additionally, he has achieved a remarkable ranking in the 91st percentile for run-blocking over the last three seasons.
As the Chargers look to fortify their offensive line, acquiring Bitonio could provide a reliable solution amid ongoing injury challenges. His ability to adapt to McDaniel”s zone scheme makes him a fitting candidate to enhance the Chargers” overall performance on the field.
