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.

The Los Angeles Chargers have made significant strides in enhancing their offensive line, culminating in a playoff appearance last season. However, they faced disappointment against the Houston Texans. In a recent decision, the team opted not to exercise the fifth-year option on offensive lineman Zion Johnson, a former first-round pick. This move indicates a strategic shift as they prepare for the 2026 season, allowing Johnson to enter the final year of his contract.

During the 2025 NFL Draft, the Chargers focused heavily on bolstering their offense, selecting North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton and Ole Miss receiver Tre Harris. With Johnson's future uncertain, the Chargers are looking to solidify their offensive strategy, which may hinge on the new recruits' integration into the lineup.

The Cincinnati Bengals have made significant strides this offseason by extending key players like Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, but their work is far from over. The team still needs to address the unsteady interior offensive line and is eyeing potential trades to bolster its roster. Currently, Trey Hendrickson's contract situation is uncertain, and with no solid starter at guard, the Bengals are exploring options to improve their line. Speculation includes a trade for Zion Johnson, a former first-round pick from the Chargers. With Joe Burrow's passing game in mind, enhancing the offensive line becomes crucial.

The Bengals' emphasis on strengthening their defense and offensive line reflects their intentions to contend for a Super Bowl. Although Johnson has not yet proven to be an All-Pro, his versatility and pedigree make him a potential asset for Cincinnati, allowing Burrow to connect with elite receivers. Cincinnati is expected to actively pursue upgrades as it eyes a championship run in the upcoming seasons.

The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for a significant offseason as they look to strengthen their offensive line, particularly to protect quarterback Justin Herbert. With an anticipated $66 million in cap space, the team is considering several options after a disappointing performance from their current interior offensive linemen. Notably, there's speculation about moving Zion Johnson to center, potentially filling the guard position through mid-market free agency. The Chargers face decisions on whether to keep Trey Pipkins or draft another guard to compete with Johnson's existing role.

Analysts suggest the Chargers may not dive into high-profile free agency signings this year, opting instead for a more cautious approach. This could involve targeting players like Will Fries from Indianapolis or Teven Jenkins from Chicago to reinforce the line without risking heavy financial investments. The strategy reflects a commitment to building a sustainable team while avoiding the pitfalls of big-ticket mistakes, especially as they navigate a competitive AFC West landscape.

The Los Angeles Chargers face tough decisions regarding their roster, particularly with Joey Bosa looming as a prime cut candidate. Offensive lineman Trey Pipkins is also on the chopping block after a rough season at guard. Drafting Joe Alt prompted a position change for Pipkins, but his performance didn’t meet expectations, which raises questions about his future with the team.

With Pipkins entering 2025 on a non-guaranteed $6.75 million deal, trade talks are heating up, as multiple teams are in search of temporary solutions at tackle. Despite the challenges, there remains a chance he could renegotiate his contract to remain valuable in a lesser role.