The Los Angeles Chargers face a pivotal off-season in the trenches as Rashawn Slater’s injury and Zion Johnson’s unclear 2026 status thrust internal line decisions into the spotlight. Slater’s $ major investment complicates the path forward, while Joe Alt’s left-side shift and Trey Pipkins III stepping in keep the protection afloat in 2025. Ballentine’s take centers on Johnson as the franchise’s interior anchor to re-sign in free agency, arguing his elite tools could cement the guard spot if he proves it in year two under Harbaugh’s system. If Johnson isn’t retained, the Chargers could pivot to drafting interior linemen early in 2026, reshaping Herbert’s pocket and the team’s run game balance. The question is whether they prioritize continuity or risk a wholesale upgrade to stabilize a young, high-cost unit.

Beyond Johnson, the piece underscores the fragile continuity of the line as Slater’s injury-induced absence accelerates Alt’s transition to left tackle and tests Pipkins’ versatility at right tackle. The Chargers’ cap reality and past commitments to Slater and Alt amplify the strategic weight of Johnson’s decision. As free agency nears, the Bolts’ playbook for 2026 hinges on whether Johnson can realize his first-round potential or if the team bets on youth and draft capital to reshape the interior. Either path will redefine Herbert’s protection and the offense’s ceiling in fantasy-dependent terms.

Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick from Colorado, made his NFL debut for the Cleveland Browns against the Carolina Panthers in the preseason opener and showcased remarkable potential. In a strong first half, he completed 11 of 18 passes for 103 yards and threw two touchdowns, while also rushing for 20 yards. Despite a slow start, he finished the game completing 14 of 23 passes for a total of 138 yards and added 19 rushing yards.

The performance has sparked excitement among fans, raising expectations for Sanders as he transitions to the professional level. His ability to connect with his receivers, including a touchdown pass to Kaden Davis, hints at a promising future for the young quarterback.

The Los Angeles Chargers are navigating a significant setback this season with the loss of star left tackle Rashawn Slater, who suffered a torn patellar tendon during practice. Coach Jim Harbaugh expressed that it's a 'gut punch' for the team. To mitigate this loss, the Chargers have decided to shift Joe Alt, the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, to left tackle, while Trey Pipkins will take over at right tackle. Both players bring strong credentials to their new roles; Alt is a former All-American and Pipkins has versatility from his previous season, where he started 15 games at right guard.

Despite Alt's inexperience at the NFL level, his collegiate performance at Notre Dame suggests he has the potential to excel in his new position. Harbaugh confirmed that the starting lineup will consist of Alt, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, projected starter Mekhi Becton, and Pipkins. While this lineup is not finalized, it demonstrates the Chargers' adaptability in facing adversity and maintaining a competitive edge in the league.

The 2025 NFL draft has concluded, and teams are now assessing their new talents at rookie minicamps. Insights from league executives reveal that the Dallas Cowboys expressed interest in Tetairoa McMillan, but ultimately drafted Tyler Booker. The Giants made a strategic selection with Jaxson Dart, emphasizing their commitment to developing a robust defense. The Eagles made headlines by picking Jihaad Campbell, a first-round linebacker, a move uncharacteristic for them. The Commanders added Trey Amos, praised for his versatility, while the Bears took Colston Loveland, who emerged as a highly regarded tight end prospect. Notably, the Colts focused on strengthening their defense with JT Tuimoloau, while the Jaguars secured receiver help by trading up for Travis Hunter. The draft landscape is shifting, with each team adopting unique strategies aimed at enhancing their rosters for the upcoming season.