The Los Angeles Chargers enter 2025 with one of the league’s more intriguing defensive storylines. Last season, they led the NFL in points allowed per game (17.7), thanks in part to a surprisingly stout defensive line. But with key contributors like Poona Ford and Morgan Fox departing in free agency, the Bolts now face a major question: can their interior defensive line repeat its dominant performance?
New faces like Da’Shawn Hand, Naquan Jones, and third-round rookie addition Justin Caldwell offer promise. Teair Tart returns and is expected to be a leader in the unit, with rotational players Otito Ogbonnia, Christopher Hinton, Scott Matlock, and Justin Eboigbe rounding out the depth chart. The group will be coached by Jesse Minter and defensive line coach Mike Elston—both respected for developing tough, disciplined fronts.
Los Angeles Chargers Eye Potential Trade for John Franklin-Myers Amid Interior D-Line Needs
Still, there’s a sense that the Chargers could benefit from a proven interior disruptor, and one intriguing name has surfaced: Denver Broncos defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers.
Franklin-Myers quietly put together a strong 2024 campaign, posting seven sacks and 18 QB hits in just 46% of snaps. However, Denver is financially stretched after investing in DJ Jones, Jonathon Cooper, and Zach Allen. With Allen due a big extension and other young defenders like Nik Bonitto also on the rise, Franklin-Myers may be the odd man out—especially with a $10 million cap hit and no guarantee of a long-term deal.
While Denver may prefer to keep Franklin-Myers, a trade could become viable if contract talks stall. For the Chargers, the obstacle is clear: dealing with a division rival. But if the Broncos prioritize cap space and roster balance, the Bolts could make a compelling offer to land the kind of interior presence they sorely need to sustain their defensive success.
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