Chargers News: LA’s OC Loves The Left Side of His Offensive Line
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The Los Angeles Chargers are off to an impressive start in their offseason training activities (OTA's), with players actively participating and the coaching staff expressing their delight with the team's progress. The Chargers made significant additions not only to their player roster but also to their coaching staff.
One notable addition is Kellen Moore, the new offensive coordinator, who is expected to ignite the team's explosive offense. Moore, who has inherited a talented group of quarterbacks, receivers, and running backs, understands that success begins in the trenches with the offensive line.
Moore, a former quarterback, knows more than anyone how important the offensive line is to a football team. Moore recently shared his enthusiasm about the Chargers' offensive line, particularly the left side of it.
I think we’re building this left side that is going to have some tremendous strength behind it. Those guys’ ability to use strengths — the right side, as well — to kind of solidify these positions, to get these guys working together. I think that’s one of the biggest things with offensive line is that it’s five guys that have to be in sync. The more those guys spend time together, I think, is critical. We’re really excited about the way it’s laying out.
The left side of the Bolts line consists of two young talents: Zion Johnson and Rashawn Slater. The Chargers selected Johnson and Slater in the first round of the 2021 and 2022 drafts, respectively. Johnson, who previously played on the right side, has made the transition to the left tackle position. On the other hand, Slater is set to return to the team after missing a significant portion of the 2022 season due to a ruptured bicep tendon. Both players are expected to shoulder the responsibility of protecting their superstar quarterback and opening up running lanes for the team's star running back, Austin Ekeler.
Johnson and Slater, as young and promising talents, will undoubtedly play a crucial part in shaping the team's offensive strategy. Their ability to provide solid pass protection and create opportunities for the running game will be instrumental in the Chargers' success.
The quarterback position is important, but the team knows it all starts in the trenches, and they will hang their hat on that end.
