The Chargers revealed their 2024 starting O-line, anchored by Rashawn Slater's record $114M deal. See how this new front five will protect Justin Herbert.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Day 10 of training camp delivered the moment Chargers fans have been waiting for: the first look at Jim Harbaugh's rebuilt offensive line. Anchored by newly-minted highest-paid lineman Rashawn Slater, the massive front five took the field, offering a glimpse into the physical, dominant identity the team aims to build to protect its franchise quarterback, Justin Herbert.
Rashawn Slater just reset the market, signing a massive four-year, $114 million extension to become the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL.
The Chargers solidified their commitment to the trenches by making left tackle Rashawn Slater the highest-paid offensive lineman in league history with a four-year, $114 million extension. With his bag secured, Slater took his spot on a first-team unit that looks formidable on paper. He was joined by LG Jamaree Salyer, C Bradley Bozeman, RG Mekhi Becton, and rookie RT Joe Alt. This group represents a significant investment and a clear philosophical shift under Harbaugh, prioritizing a powerful run game and ironclad protection for Herbert.
While the starting five took shape, the battle for depth and versatility is heating up. Former first-round pick Zion Johnson, whose fifth-year option was declined, is in a crucial contract year and is being cross-trained at both center and guard. He's competing with veteran Bradley Bozeman, who is also learning multiple positions. The coaching staff's emphasis on versatility means they want players who can plug multiple gaps, creating intense competition and pushing Johnson to prove his value in a new role.
With the offensive line taking form, the Chargers are now preparing for their national television debut in the NFL preseason opener. They'll face the Detroit Lions in the Hall of Fame Game this Thursday, July 31, at Ford Field. Coach Harbaugh has remained coy about whether the new-look offensive line or other key starters will see any action. For fans, it's the first chance to see the team in a game setting, broadcast on NBC and Peacock, as the Harbaugh era officially kicks off.
As training camp buzz hits a fever pitch, it's a good time to remember that everyone in the AFC West is starting from scratch. The Chargers, Chiefs, Raiders, and Broncos all sit at 0-0. With a new coaching staff, a revamped offensive philosophy, and a franchise quarterback, the Chargers are aiming to disrupt the division hierarchy from day one. The work being done now in Costa Mesa is the foundation for that divisional race.
All eyes now turn to Detroit. The big question hanging over Bolt Nation is whether Harbaugh will trot out his newly-formed, high-priced starting line for a few series in the Hall of Fame Game. Whether they play or not, one thing is clear: the foundation is being laid, brick by massive brick. Thursday night offers the first glimpse of what this new era of Chargers football is all about.
