Chargers' Free Agency Plan Reveals 2026 Path, Fans Unsatisfied

The Chargers' offseason moves suggest a focus on the running game, leaving some fans concerned about Justin Herbert's protection.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 12:37am

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The Los Angeles Chargers have made several key free agency signings this offseason, including center Tyler Biadasz, tight end Charlie Kolar, running back Keaton Mitchell, and fullback Alec Ingold. However, the team's lack of highly-touted additions on the offensive line has left some fans unsatisfied about Justin Herbert's protection for the 2026 season.

Why it matters

The Chargers' offensive line was plagued by injuries in 2025, and the team's focus on the running game and skill position players in free agency suggests they may be prioritizing Mike McDaniel's vision for the offense over shoring up the offensive line. This could be a risky strategy if the line struggles with injuries again, as Herbert's health and production are crucial to the team's success.

The details

The Chargers have made several key free agency signings, including center Tyler Biadasz, tight end Charlie Kolar, running back Keaton Mitchell, and fullback Alec Ingold. However, the team's lack of highly-touted additions on the offensive line has left some fans unsatisfied about Justin Herbert's protection for the 2026 season. The team is clearly focused on building up its rushing attack, but this could come at the expense of Herbert's protection if the offensive line struggles with injuries again.

  • The Chargers' offseason moves have been made in preparation for the 2026 NFL season.

The players

Justin Herbert

The Chargers' starting quarterback, who took a lot of punishment in 2025 due to offensive line injuries.

Tyler Biadasz

The Chargers' new center, signed in free agency.

Rashawn Slater

The Chargers' injured offensive lineman who is expected to return in 2026.

Joe Alt

The Chargers' injured offensive lineman who is expected to return in 2026.

Mike McDaniel

The Chargers' head coach, who is focused on building up the team's rushing attack.

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What they’re saying

“The Chargers' lack of highly-touted additions at guard have left fans unsatisfied about Justin Herbert's protection next year, but their signings of center Tyler Biadasz, tight end Charlie Kolar, running back Keaton Mitchell and fullback Alec Ingold has made it clear that the team is prioritizing Mike McDaniel's vision and rushing attack.”

— Eva Geitheim, Sports Illustrated Writer (Sports Illustrated)

What’s next

The Chargers will need to monitor the offensive line situation closely during training camp and the preseason to ensure they have adequate depth and protection for Justin Herbert. They may need to consider adding more veteran offensive linemen through free agency or the draft.

The takeaway

The Chargers' offseason moves suggest a shift in focus towards building up their rushing attack, but this strategy could backfire if the offensive line struggles with injuries again and fails to adequately protect their star quarterback, Justin Herbert. Fans will be closely watching to see if the team's priorities pay off on the field in 2026.