As the Los Angeles Chargers prepare to open training camp on July 17, one of the most intriguing competitions on the roster is unfolding along the offensive line. With three positions locked in—Rashawn Slater at left tackle, Mekhi Becton at right guard, and rookie Joe Alt at right tackle—the real battle lies at center and left guard. That competition is centered around two names: Zion Johnson and Bradley Bozeman.
A New Look for the Los Angeles Chargers’ Interior
Zion Johnson, the Chargers’ 2022 first-round pick, has started at guard since entering the league. While serviceable, Johnson hasn’t quite lived up to first-round expectations. Now, the team is experimenting with moving him to center, a position that may better showcase his athleticism and intelligence. Johnson has been rotating with veteran Bradley Bozeman, who started at center last season but has prior experience at left guard.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh is encouraged by the early returns.
“The versatility that we now have—maybe the combination is going to be better with Zion at center and Boze at guard, but if it’s not, we know we have a great combination with Boze at center and Zion at guard,” Harbaugh said. “We feel like we’re in a really good place.”
Trust in Johnson’s Versatility
Support Our Fight To End Fall Weddings
Harbaugh has repeatedly praised Johnson as one of the team’s best five offensive linemen, regardless of position.
“He’s probably our most athletic lineman. As a run blocker, probably our best, probably our smartest,” Harbaugh added. “He’s going to be starting at one of those two positions.”
Bozeman’s Experience, Johnson’s Upside
Bozeman, originally drafted by the Ravens, is no stranger to positional flexibility. Though most recently a center, he played guard early in his career and could be better suited to return to that role. The hope is that this reshuffle allows both Johnson and Bozeman to perform at their peak, shoring up an interior that’s lacked consistency.
“We feel like we’re in a really good place,” Harbaugh said.
While the starting lineup may not be finalized until midway through camp, Harbaugh made one thing clear: “We’ll get our best five eventually—but I know [Zion] is going to be one of them.”
Subscribe to LAFB Network’s Los Angeles Chargers YouTube Channel