Chargers GM Promises More Offensive Line Help for Justin Herbert

Los Angeles Chargers GM Joe Hortiz signals more upgrades to the offensive line are coming ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:40pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football offensive line and quarterback, with sharp, overlapping planes in navy blue, powder blue, and gold colors, conveying the Chargers' need to rebuild their protection for Justin Herbert.The Chargers' offensive line struggles in 2025 exposed their franchise QB to constant pressure, a problem the team is determined to fix through the draft.El Segundo Today

The Los Angeles Chargers are making offensive line upgrades a central focus this offseason after quarterback Justin Herbert faced consistent pressure and was sacked 54 times in 2025. GM Joe Hortiz stated the team is 'not done on the offensive line' and plans to continue investing in protection for their franchise QB.

Why it matters

The Chargers' struggles to provide adequate protection for Herbert in 2025 severely impacted his performance, as he was the most pressured and hurried QB in the league. Improving the offensive line is crucial to unlocking Herbert's full potential and giving the team a better chance of success.

The details

The Chargers have already taken steps to reinforce the offensive line, signing center Tyler Biadasz and adding guard Cole Strange. However, questions remain about the overall depth and consistency of the unit. Hortiz's comments indicate the team plans to target more linemen in the upcoming draft, focusing on players who fit their movement-based offensive scheme.

  • The Chargers entered the 2026 offseason determined to address their offensive line issues.
  • In the 2025 season, Justin Herbert was the most pressured and hurried quarterback in the league, and was sacked 54 times.

The players

Joe Hortiz

The general manager of the Los Angeles Chargers, who spoke about the team's plans to continue upgrading the offensive line to better protect quarterback Justin Herbert.

Justin Herbert

The franchise quarterback of the Los Angeles Chargers, who faced consistent pressure and was sacked 54 times in the 2025 season.

Tyler Biadasz

A center signed by the Chargers this offseason to help stabilize the interior of the offensive line.

Cole Strange

A guard added by the Chargers this offseason to help reinforce the offensive line.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're not done on the offensive line, I can promise you that.”

— Joe Hortiz, General Manager, Los Angeles Chargers

What’s next

The Chargers are expected to target offensive linemen in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, focusing on players who fit their movement-based offensive scheme.

The takeaway

The Chargers' commitment to improving their offensive line and providing better protection for quarterback Justin Herbert is a clear priority this offseason. The team's willingness to continue investing in the trenches demonstrates their understanding of the importance of a strong offensive line in unlocking Herbert's full potential and giving the team the best chance of success.