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Chargers go all in on the O-line to help Justin Herbert

The Los Angeles Chargers used the 2026 NFL Draft to make a clear roster statement, focusing heavily on reshaping the offense around quarterback Justin Herbert. Over three days, the team made eight selections, including Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor at No. 22 overall, while dedicating five picks to offense and three to defense.

The draft followed a major offseason shift, with the Chargers hiring former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator and moving on from Greg Roman. General manager Joe Hortiz, head coach Jim Harbaugh, and assistant general manager Chad Alexander emphasized that the goal was to build a more dynamic and functional offense.

The primary focus became evident after the second paragraph of the draft process: rebuilding the offensive line to better protect Herbert and fit McDaniel’s system. The Chargers entered the offseason with only three offensive linemen under contract, and injuries to Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt exposed depth concerns throughout the previous season.

Los Angeles Chargers Offensive Line Overhaul Around Justin Herbert

GettyLos Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert

The Chargers committed significant resources to rebuilding the offensive line, both in free agency and the draft. Additions such as Tyler Biadasz, Cole Strange, and Kayode Awosika addressed immediate needs, while Trey Pipkins III and Trevor Penning returned to provide continuity.

In the draft, Los Angeles selected four offensive linemen, beginning with Florida’s Jake Slaughter in Round 2. The team continued with Travis Burke, Logan Taylor, and Alex Harkey on Day 3, making the offensive line the most heavily targeted position group.

Hortiz explained the approach, saying, “Like I told you [Friday], one of you asked a question about linemen and I said there’s a lot of linemen we like in this draft still. We take the best players available. It breeds competition.”(via Chargers.com)

The Chargers traded up with the Houston Texans to select Burke at No. 117 overall. The 6-foot-9, 325-pound tackle from Memphis started 11 games in 2025 and earned First-Team All-AAC honors, posting a 98.0 pass-blocking efficiency and an 84.5 Pro Football Focus offensive grade.

Alexander highlighted Burke’s playing style: “Just a massive human being. Huge. Outstanding length. He’s tough, a really tough competitor. What stands out to me is the effort, the finishing ability, nastiness in terms of finishing plays.”

Harbaugh also pointed to Burke as a standout evaluation, saying, “Love the hustle. Not afraid to finish down the field, out past the hashes. Just a lot of good.”

Taylor and Harkey, both experienced collegiate tackles, are expected to compete for guard depth. Hortiz described them as “big frame guys” with physical traits and finishing ability.

The result is a deeper, more competitive offensive line, designed to protect Herbert and stabilize the offense after a season marked by injuries and inconsistency.

Chargers Add Speed With Brenen Thompson for Mike McDaniel Offense

In addition to reinforcing the offensive line, the Chargers added speed to their skill positions by selecting Mississippi State wide receiver Brenen Thompson with the No. 105 pick in Round 4.

Hortiz identified Thompson as a priority target early on Day 3. “He was No. 1 [on our list]. Frankly, our trade back at 86 [on Friday], he would’ve been in the mix at 86,” Hortiz said.

Thompson ran a 4.26-second 40-yard dash at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, the fastest time recorded at the event. He led the SEC with 1,054 receiving yards, demonstrating his ability as a vertical threat.

“The speed jumps out on film, ability to track the ball downfield is really elite and ability to take the ball on the run and gone,” Hortiz said. “Really explosive playmaker that we think really adds and opens up this offense.”

The selection aligns with McDaniel’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes spacing, speed, and playmaking in open space. Thompson’s profile has drawn comparisons to DeSean Jackson and Tyreek Hill for their size-speed combination.

Hortiz also noted Thompson could contribute immediately on special teams. “We’ll definitely throw him back there,” he said, referring to return duties.

The Chargers’ offensive additions, particularly along the line and at receiver, reflect a broader shift in identity. The organization is prioritizing athleticism, movement, and space creation, moving away from heavier, power-based schemes.

As Harbaugh summarized the offseason direction, “It fires me up.”