Justin Herbert

Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh said he “can’t wait” to “build up” the team’s offensive line.

“April 2, let’s get it started,” Harbaugh added in an interview during the NFL coaches’ meetings. The new LA head coach talked up the importance of a solid offensive line in creating a consistent, productive offense. It’s a surprise to no one since Harbaugh has emphasized tough-nosed football everywhere he’s coached. The 2023 Chargers were graded by PFF as the league’s worst run blocking offensive line; they were 13th in pass blocking. It would be easy to interpret Harbaugh’s comments as a giveaway that the Chargers will take Notre Dame OL Joe Alt with the fifth pick in the 2023 draft, forgoing offensive firepower sorely needed after parting ways with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Just Herbert last season was pressured on 36 percent of his drop backs, which ranked 21st out of 43 qualifying QBs. Herbert completed 49 percent of his throws for five touchdowns and six interceptions when pressured in 2023.