Chargers to hire former NFL LB Sean Spence as LBs coach

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PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 10: Sean Spence #51 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in action during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Heinz Field on December 10, 2017 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) *** Local Caption *** | Getty Images

The Chargers have finally found their replacement for NaVorro Bowman as their linebackers coach.

Per NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Bolts are hiring former Steelers, Titans, and Colts linebacker Sean Spence to fill the role following Bowman stepping away to spend more time with his family, including his son who is a top high-school basketball prospect. Spence spent the past three seasons with Western Michigan where he most recently coached their pass rushers.

Sources: The #Chargers are hiring Sean Spence as their new inside linebackers coach.

Spence, a former NFL player, most recently coached at Western Michigan and at the Senior Bowl. Under his guidance, Nadame Tucker led the country in sacks and TFLs this past season. pic.twitter.com/4cvRHR4umr

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 13, 2026

Spence will follow new Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary to Los Angeles where the latter helped the former turn the Broncos defense into one of the best units in the country during the 2025 season. Spence personally coached Western Michigan pass rusher Nadame Tucker who ended the year with a nation-leading 14.5 sacks en route to earning First-Team All-MAC honors and being named the MAC Defensive Player of the Year. Tucker was also invited to participate in this year’s Panini Senior Bowl where he competed with the nation’s top senior talent.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...o-hire-former-nfl-lb-sean-spence-as-lbs-coach
 
Chargers to hire former Steelers LBs coach Denzel Martin as Asst. LBs coach

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 8: Donte Jackson #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Head coach Denzel Martin celebrate during a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 8, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. The Steelers defeated the Falcons 18-10. (Kara Durrette/Getty Images) | Getty Images

This past Sunday, NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported that the Chargers are hiring former Steelers outside linebackers coach Denzel Martin to be their new assistant linebackers coach under Sean Spence. Martin has been with Pittsburgh under Mike Tomlin since the 2016 season and has worked with notable players such as T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig.

Sources: The #Chargers are hiring former #Steelers OLBs coach Denzel Martin as assistant OLBs coach on Jim Harbaugh’s staff.

Martin was in Pittsburgh since 2016 and has worked with the likes of TJ Watt, Alex Highsmith, Nick Herbig, among others. He now joins the Chargers with… pic.twitter.com/V3PwTyrqOl

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) February 15, 2026

Under Martin, Watt was named a First-Team All-Pro selection four times, including during the 2021 season where Watt tied the previous all-time single-season sack record with 22.5. In 2023, Watt recorded 19 sacks and 19 tackles for loss which earned his latest nod to the first team.

After recorded just eight sacks in his first two seasons, Martin coached Highsmith to a career-high 14.5 sacks and five forced fumbles during the 2022 campaign.

This past season, Herbig recorded a career-high 7.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss to go with an interception, three forced fumbles, and a fumble returned for a touchdown.

Martin played collegiately at the University of Missouri as a linebacker. He got his coaching career started as a graduate assistant in 2015 before earning an opportunity as a scouting assistant with the Steelers.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ers-lbs-coach-denzel-martin-as-asst-lbs-coach
 
Daniel Jeremiah pairs standout TE w/ Chargers in new 2026 mock

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ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JANUARY 09: Kenyon Sadiq #18 of the Oregon Ducks runs with the ball against the Indiana Hoosiers during the first quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Chargers are in need of trench “weapons” this offseason, not the usual weapons we’ve come to pair with the word in receivers, running backs, etc. However, NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah believes there still may be a place for one more traditional weapon in the new Chargers offense under offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

In Jeremiah’s Mock Draft 2.0, he actually has the Chargers snagging standout Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq with the 22nd-overall pick.

“Sadiq is the perfect weapon for a creative offensive mind like Mike McDaniel,” says Jeremiah. “With the tight end joining Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre Harris and Oronde Gadsden II, the OC would have a lot to work with in his first year with the Charger.”

So it’s obvious the Chargers are not at a lack of weapons. Jeremiah just named four of them who all can lead a game in stats during any given week. That was proven this past season, but it looks like the long-time draft scout believes there is even more room for potential given the hire of McDaniel. After all, it’s not like we haven’t seen success before from offenses that love to utilize two tight end sets.

If that is the direction McDaniel wants to go, I will have trust in his vision, but Herbert still will need time to throw to those tight ends, meaning the trenches must be the top priority. Maybe if the Chargers land both Tyler Linderbaum and David Edwards in free agency they can afford to use the pick on someone like Sadiq, but until then, I can’t say I believe this is the best way to go in the first round.

TE Kenyon Sadiq last night: 8 targets, 8 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD (would have had a 2nd TD if this 👇 was a better throw).

Started as the clear TE1…will finish as the clear TE1. pic.twitter.com/EeuhWu6YB1

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) November 15, 2025

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...pairs-standout-te-w-chargers-in-new-2026-mock
 
Zion Johnson named Chargers player who could use a fresh start

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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Zion Johnson #77 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during halftime of an AFC wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images

If there was any kind of bright spot along the interior of the offensive line in 2025, it was that Zion Johnson took a step forward as a run blocker. He was one of the best in the NFL, in fact, but that did not matter when those playing around him were consistently amongst the worst performers each week at their respective positions.

In contrast to Johnson’s success rate as a run blocker, it was his pass protection that left a lot to be desired. The first-round pedigree has not been matched with his play and that’s why ESPN’s Aaron Schatz believes that Johnson is the pick for a Chargers player that could use a change of scenery in 2026.

Johnson hasn’t lived up to his first-round potential in his four years with the Chargers. Last season, his 87.4% pass block win rate ranked 62nd out of 65 qualifying guards. There might be another coaching staff out there that knows how to get the best out of him. Johnson is still a strong run blocker, as his 79.3% run block win rate last season ranked second among guards, behind only Seattle rookie Grey Zabel.”

It’s always interesting to see how different platforms and grading companies differ on the same player. Above, Schatz notes that Johnson was one of the worst guards in the NFL in their pass block win rate formula. However, Pro Football Focus had Johnson as one of the better guards in pass protection per their pass blocking efficiency rating.

The thing is, we all have watched him play over the past four seasons and fans are aware what is and is not working. At this point, I wouldn’t be surprised at either outcome. If Johnson is re-signed, I’d agree it was smart in that there’s one less box to check at solidifying the starting group for 2026. If he signs elsewhere, then I’d understand the team wanting to move on and strive for a better option that may also no cost as much.

A step forward for Zion Johnson in a contract year:

Second in ESPN's IOL run block win rate
T-15th/60 in PFF's Pass Blocking Efficiency Rating
T-5th/60 in PFF PBE True Pass Sets

Not to mention a fourth year in a row of 1000+ snaps played. pic.twitter.com/2r0jhj2pwA

— Tyler Schoon (@tylerjschoon) December 30, 2025

But what do you all think? Should the Chargers re-sign Johnson or are they better off letting him walk in hopes of upgrading left guard this offseason? Let us know what you think below!

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...d-chargers-player-who-could-use-a-fresh-start
 
Chargers Daily Links: Wednesday Open Thread

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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Ladd McConkey #15 of the Los Angeles Chargers signals as he lines up during an NFL wild card playoff game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


Check out the latest mock draft tracker for the Chargers (Chargers.com)

Why NFL insiders believe Mike McDaniel can take Justin Herbert and the Chargers offense to the next level (Chargers.com)

Is Odafe Oweh a candidate for the franchise tag? (Chargers Wire)

Standouts and sleepers from the Chargers’ 2025 draft class (Charger Report)

NFL News:


These players could use a fresh start in 2026 with a new team (ESPN)

Mike Evans plans to play in 2026, will test the free agent market (ESPN)

Ranking the top five players at their respective positions in the 2026 NFL Draft (CBS Sports)

The 49ers will play a game in both Australia and Mexico during the 2026 season (NFL.com)

Will the Jets end up using the franchise tag on Breece Hall? (Pro Football Talk)

One move every NFC North team should make this offseason (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...59/chargers-daily-links-wednesday-open-thread
 
Although were high expectations from LeBron James, Ladd McConkey slowed down in 2025 season. He was unable to match early records as he struggled tough defenses on the court every week.
 
Chargers Daily Links: Thursday Open Thread

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 12: Head coach Jim Harbaugh (L) and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel (R) of the Los Angeles Chargers ask an usher for directions to their seats before a game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena on February 12, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Wally Skalij/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


See which Chargers quarterbacks made Bleacher Report’s Top 99 all-time rankings (Chargers.com)

The Chargers made a massive donation to Lulu’s Place (Chargers.com)

Experts believe Zion Johnson’s best fit would be with a division rival (Chargers Wire)

Should the Chargers avoid signing Wyatt Teller? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:


Which teams should be interested in WR A.J. Brown? (ESPN)

Pete Prisco ranked the top 100 free agents of the 2026 offseason (CBS Sports)

Chiefs WR Rashee Rice has been accused of domestic violence (CBS Sports)

These eight free agents could have a misvalued market this offseason (NFL.com)

Ronald Curry is reuniting with Sean Payton to coach the Broncos wide receivers (Pro Football Talk)

Declan Doyle knows building trust with Lamar Jackson won’t happen overnight (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...060/chargers-daily-links-thursday-open-thread
 
Experts pick best free agent fits for Odafe Oweh, Khalil Mack

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INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: Odafe Oweh #98 of the Los Angeles Chargers enters the field during player introductions prior to an NFL football game against the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium on December 27, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Brooke Sutton/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Until the new league year starts and we begin to find out where all the most notable free agents will land for the 2026 season, we’re going to be hearing a ton about predictions and best fits. New from ESPN, three current Chargers have landed on ESPN’s list of the top 50 2026 free agents.

Let’s go ahead and check out where they ended up ranked along with the team analyst Matt Bowen believes is their best fit.

9.) EDGE Odafe Oweh​


Best fit via Bowen: Los Angeles Chargers

What Bowen had to say:

Oweh’s production in L.A. after being traded from the Ravens should keep him with the Chargers under new coordinator Chris O’Leary. He had 7.5 sacks with the Chargers in the regular season and added three in their wild-card loss to the Patriots. He’s an explosive rusher whom O’Leary can scheme for one-on-one matchups.

Oweh was astounding for the Chargers down the final stretch of the season after getting his legs under him following the trade. Notching 7.5 sacks in 12 games is solid and the three he had in the team’s biggest game of the season shows he has the “show up” factor when it matters.

There’s going to be some tug-of-war in regards to whether he’ll stay in LA or possibly head back to Baltimore to play under Jesse Minter, but I believe this is a must-sign for the Chargers, regardless of

22.) EDGE Khalil Mack​


Best fit via Bowen: Tampa Bay Buccaneers

What Bowen had to say:

“The Bucs had 37 sacks last season, which ranked 18th in the league. They need to address the edges of their pass rush, and while Mack might be seen a situational player for Todd Bowles’ defense, the defender can still create disruption and get home to the quarterback. An elbow injury forced Mack to sit out five of the Chargers’ games early in the 2025 season, yet he finished with 5.5 sacks and 28 pressures.”

Mack missed a good chunk of the season but still turned in an impactful performance with his all-around game. He is still elite at setting the edge and going through the faces of opposing offensive tackles, even if the numbers say he’s missed a step or two.

Mack’s number one goal is still to win a playoff game and then a Super Bowl. The Chargers have seemed like a place where he could at least attain that first goal, but the postseason win still eludes him despite playing for three different franchises in his career.

I would not blame Mack for feeling like he needs a final change of scenery to invite a playoff win, but that obviously depends on there being a contender who wants to add him at his preferred price tag. The Chargers have the money to sign him. So do the Bucs, whom Bowen believes would be a good fit for the veteran.

33.) OG Zion Johnson​


Best fit via Bowen: Las Vegas Raiders

What Bowen had to say:

“The Raiders can upgrade their offensive line with Johnson. He’d play the left guard spot in Klint Kubiak’s system, using his mobility in the zone run game. Plus, Johnson’s youth and durability fit the rebuild in Las Vegas. He is just entering his prime playing years, with a 90.7% pass block win rate over his four-year career with the Chargers.”

Johnson was more than serviceable in 2025. However, that ceiling that he look to raise this past season was also kept from rising too high given the players he was forced to go to battle with on either side of him this week. No Rashawn Slater and Bradley Bozeman at center was a tough draw. He still played well enough to potentially earn a second contract with the Chargers despite not necessarily living up to his first-round billing.

If he winds up signing elsewhere, the Chargers will unfortunately have one more hole to fill along their offensive interior. Luckily for them, there are some decent players who shouldn’t cost too much that could come in an be an upgrade over any of the three interior players from 2025. If they can land center Tyler Linderbaum, or even guard David Andrews, they’d be in a great place heading into the NFL Draft.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...rts-pick-best-fits-for-odafe-oweh-khalil-mack
 
Chargers Daily Links: Friday Open Thread

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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Tre' Harris #9 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during halftime of an AFC wild card playoff football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Kathryn Riley/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


Why did Daniel Jeremiah have the Chargers selecting a tight end in his latest first-round mock? (Chargers.com)

10 prospects to watch at this year’s NFL Combine (Chargers.com)

Five guards the Chargers should consider signing in free agency (Chargers Wire)

The Ravens could rip a chance at Tyler Linderbaum from the Chargers with one swift move (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:


Ranking the thinnest and deepest positions in this year’s free agent class (ESPN)

The pending free agents are so far going under-the-radar this offseason (CBS Sports)

Could the Chicago Bears really end up playing in Indiana? (NFL.com)

The Rams have found their new offensive coordinator (Pro Football Talk)

What are the Seattle Seahawks worth? How much will the franchise end up selling for? (Pro Football Talk)

One bold prediction for every team during the 2026 NFL offseason (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...63061/chargers-daily-links-friday-open-thread
 
Chargers Daily Links: Tuesday Open Thread

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SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 03: Tuli Tuipulotu #45 of the Los Angeles Chargers looks on during player introductions before the 2026 NFL Pro Bowl game between the AFC and the NFC at the Moscone Center South on February 03, 2026 in San Francisco, California. The NFC won 66-52. (Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


Five things to know about the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine (Chargers.com)

NFL analysts predict the 2026 landing place for Odafe Oweh (Charges Wire)

The Chargers should re-sign Benjamin St-Juste to reinforce their depth for 2026 (Bolt Beat)

J.C. Jackson was arguably the worst free-agent signing in Chargers history (Charger Report)

NFL News:


Ranking the top 50 free agents while giving them their best fits in free agency (ESPN)

Tyreek Hill vows to play again after being released by the Miami Dolphins (ESPN)

What are some hypothetical trades that teams could make for wideout A.J. Brown? (CBS Sports)

Daniel Jeremiah dropped his second mock draft of the offseason (NFL.com)

Chris Jones wants Tyreek Hill to rejoin the Chiefs (Pro Football Talk)

The NFL grievance may not stop public shaming of NFL franchises via report cards (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...2987/chargers-daily-links-tuesday-open-thread
 
Chargers announce slate of new coaches joining staff for 2026

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN - NOVEMBER 28: Offensive line coach Butch Barry of the Miami Dolphins stands on the sidelines during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, at Lambeau Field on November 28, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images) | Getty Images

On Friday, the Chargers officially announced the hires of eight new coaches who will be joining the staff for the 2026 season.

They are Butch Barry (offensive line), Julian Campenni (assistant defensive line), Rob Everett (offensive assistant), Adam Gase (pass game specialist), Chandler Henley (tight ends), Denzel Martin (assistant outside linebackers), Max McCaffrey (running backs), and Sean Spence (linebackers).

Both Barry and Henley are following Mike McDaniel from the Dolphins to the Chargers. Barry coached the offensive line in Miami while Henley was most recently the Dolphins’ run game specialist.

our newest additions → https://t.co/ezEKhg1SFB pic.twitter.com/dq8FzhRQ3b

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) February 20, 2026

Gase is a former head coach of both the Jets and Dolphins but has not coached in the NFL since the 2020 season. He made his name in coaching as an offensive coordinator for both the Broncos and Bears before earning his first head coach job with the New York Jets.

McCaffrey is the older brother of current 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. He played collegiately at Duke University as a wide receiver.

Spence is a former linebacker for the Steelers (among other teams) who is coming off a standout year with Western Michigan under now-defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary. In 2025, he coached Broncos star edge rusher Nadame Tucker to a nation-leading 14.5 sacks.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...e-slate-of-new-coaches-joining-staff-for-2026
 
Mike McDaniel hire means Tyreek Hill could sign with Chargers

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MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JUNE 04: Head coach Mike McDaniel and Tyreek Hill #10 of the Miami Dolphins speak on the field during Miami Dolphins Mandatory Minicamp on June 04, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Los Angeles Chargers are looking to upgrade their offense in many ways this offseason.

The team is still struggling to figure out exactly what the wide receiver corps looks like. Ladd McConkey is the leader in the slot, and Tre Harris is someone to watch as a second-year pro, but there are a lot of questions outside of that. Quentin Johnston is due for a decision on his fifth-year option, which means the Chargers could move on from him. If they do, they could replace him with Miami Dolphins castoff Tyreek Hill.

“Hill to the Chargers makes sense on several levels. Financially, Los Angeles can afford it, entering the offseason with $78.6 million in effective cap space. That’s second-most in the NFL, per Over the Cap,“ CBS Sports contributor Garett Podell wrote.

“Quarterback Justin Herbert arm strength is another draw. His 24,820 passing yards rank second-most through a player’s first six seasons, trailing only Hall of Famer Peyton Manning (24,885).

“There’s also scheme familiarity: former Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel now serves as the Chargers’ offensive coordinator. Hill could step into a system he already knows and produce quickly once healthy. Hill even tweeted that McDaniel’s move to Los Angeles caught his attention.

If anyone knows how to utilize Hill, it’s former Miami Dolphins head coach and now Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.

McDaniel could center the offense around Hill to give Justin Herbert a deep threat to work with moving forward.

While Hill is still recovering from a torn ACL that he suffered early in the 2025 season, if he is 75% of who he used to be, it will still be the best deep threat option Herbert has had in his career with the Chargers.

BFTB community, what do you think of the prospect of the Chargers signing Hill? Chime off in the comments section below.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...re-means-tyreek-hill-could-sign-with-chargers
 
Chargers Daily Links: Monday Open Thread

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INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - DECEMBER 27: Daiyan Henley #0 of the Los Angeles Chargers reacts after a sack during the fourth quarter of the game against the Houston Texans at SoFi Stadium on December 27, 2025 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Katelyn Mulcahy/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


The Chargers recently announced their new hires on the coaching staff (Chargers.com)

Five things to know about new pass game specialist Adam Gase (Chargers.com)

What is the opening win total projection for the Chargers in 2026? (Chargers Wire)

The Chargers may have been gifted a day three pick in the 2026 draft because of J.K. Dobbins (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:


There is not expected to be a new proposal for banning the Tush Push this offseason (ESPN)

Jaxon Smith-Njigba believes he should be the top-paid wide receiver in the NFL (ESPN)

Projecting the win totals for all 32 teams during the 2026 season (CBS Sports)

Breece Hall awaits whatever free agency brings for him (NFL.com)

Browns players do not expect the defense to change all that much without Jim Schwartz (Pro Football Talk)

Who are the top five free agent linebackers this offseason? (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...63062/chargers-daily-links-monday-open-thread
 
Chargers C Bradley Bozeman announces retirement after 8 seasons

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KANSAS CITY, MO - DECEMBER 14: Los Angeles Chargers center Bradley Bozeman (75) before the snap in the third quarter of an NFL game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs on December 14, 2025 at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, MO. (Photo by Scott Winters/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

On Monday afternoon, Bradley Bozeman, the Chargers’ starting center over the past two seasons, announced his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons that also included stints with the Ravens and Panthers.

Bozeman joined the Chargers in 2024 after the team hired general manager Joe Hortiz. Bozeman and Hortiz spent time together in Baltimore and Bozeman was an easy and familiar fit following Corey Linsley abrupt end to his playing career.

Long-time NFL C Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement on IG. pic.twitter.com/DtkDFdgYCl

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 23, 2026

The former fifth-round pick signed a two-year contract extension with the Chargers in 2025. After retiring, the Chargers should save around $6 million in cap space as they look for their next starting center.

Bozeman has been a pro’s pro and a major part of every community that he got the chance to play for during his eight seasons. Fans will likely remember him only for his play on the field, but that shouldn’t keep them from appreciating who he was to the locker room and to the young players on the team.

We wish him nothing but the best in his future endeavors.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-bozeman-announces-retirement-after-8-seasons
 
Chargers Daily Links: Tuesday Open Thread

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FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - JANUARY 11: Tarheeb Still #29, Elijah Molden #2 and Tony Jefferson #23 of the Los Angeles Chargers tackle Drake Maye #10 of the New England Patriots during the second quarter of the AFC Wild Card Playoff game at Gillette Stadium on January 11, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


10 prospects for Chargers fans to keep an eye on at this year’s NFL Combine (Chargers.com)

Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement from the NFL after eight seasons (Chargers.com)

Five cornerbacks for the Chargers to watch at this year’s NFL Combine (Chargers Wire)

Is Kansas State’s Sam Hecht a potential replacement for Bradley Bozeman after the latter’s retirement? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:


Check out the schedule for this year’s NFL Combine (CBS Sports)

Nick Sirianni cannot guarantee A.J. Brown’s return to the Eagles in 2026 (ESPN)

The UFL made several rule changes ahead of the 2026 season (ESPN)

Gregg Rosenthal ranked his top 101 NFL free agents (NFL.com)

Zach Ertz plans to play in 2026 despite season-ending injury this past season (Pro Football Talk)

Five rookies in 2025 who are poised take a leap in 2026 (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...3063/chargers-daily-links-tuesday-open-thread
 
5 offensive linemen to watch at the 2026 NFL Combine

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COLUMBIA, MO - NOVEMBER 08: Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Chase Bisontis (71) during a SEC conference game between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Missouri Tigers held on Saturday November 08, 2025 at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium in Columbia MO. (Photo by Rick Ulreich/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The NFL Combine is here and the Chargers will be one of the teams watching the offensive line group as closely as possible.

With a new center and potentially both guards needing to be replaced before next season, the Bolts will have to do a lot of work on this draft class in hopes of building a better unit to protect Justin Herbert in 2026.

Below are five offensive lineman all Chargers fans should watch closely this week.

OG Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M​


One of the more recent new names paired with the Chargers, Bisontis was taken by the Bolts in a prior two-round mock that had them trading back to the 28th pick with the Texans. If the top guard (Vega Ioane) is not there at 22, I could easily see the Bolts moving back to gain a pick and still grab an immediate starter.

Bisontis is built very well at 6’5 and 315 pounds with heavy hands and great functional strength. Scouts may ding him a bit for having shorter arms, but that may be the only notable shortcoming for him. He’s as solid as they come and he could very well push Ioane for being the best player at his position in this class.

C Sam Hecht, Kansas State​


Hecht impressed at this year’s Senior Bowl and that very well could see his draft stock rise all the same. He’s been stellar as the Wildcats’ starting center the past two seasons and hasn’t allowed a single sack in that span.

At 6’4 and 297 pounds, he’s a very mobile pivot with the ability to get out into space and be a difference-maker. He is a very easy mover and always looks under control of his body. Sure, he could stand to add a few more pounds, but his skillset fits the modern pro game. Centers that can move and block in space are not grown on trees and Hecht looks to be the next guy in the mold.

Kansas State center Sam Hecht (#75) is so good on the move, both pulling + climbing to the second level. Plug-and-play talent.

Didn’t allow a sack the past two seasons as the Wildcats’ starting center either. pic.twitter.com/EpjBCSyoaI

— Bobby Football (@Rob__Paul) February 22, 2026

OG Vega Ioane, Penn State​


Ioane has probably been the most common named paired with the Chargers in first-round mock drafts thus far into the offseason. He’s basically built in a lab for a Jim Harbaugh-led team at 6’4 and 330 pounds while being physically dominant in both the run game and in pass protection.

Due to positional value, even as the top guard in the draft class, there’s a real chance Ioane can fall all the way to the Chargers at No. 22. If that happens, I believe this pick is sprinted up to the podium.

C Logan Jones, Iowa​


Jones is an undersized center prospect (by modern NFL standards) but that didn’t stop him from bringing home the 2025 Rimington Award (nation’s top center) and being part of the 2025 Joe Moore Award winners (nation’s top offensive line unit).

The multi-year starter for the Hawkeyes was Bruce Feldman’s No. 7-ranked player on his annual Freaks List, highlighting the biggest freak athletes in all of college football. Jones left Iowa with the program record for centers in the short shuttle (4.09), vertical jump (36.5 inches), 10-yard split (1.53) and the hang clean (470 pounds).

He may surprise this week in Indy.

OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama​


Similar to Jones above, Proctor was on Bruce Feldman’s Freak List, but he ranked No. 2 only behind Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.

Proctor is a monolithic offensive lineman standing at 6’7 and 366 pounds. He can reportedly squat over 800 pounds bench press 535 pounds. That’s insane, even by NFL offensive lineman standards. The Chargers don’t need a tackle, but there’s a lot of speculation that Proctor will ultimately transition to guard at the next level where his skillset is better suited.

He’s not super nimble on his feet, but it’s impressive nonetheless given his size. He held his own at left tackle for multiple years in the SEC, so teams will certainly give him a look on the edge, but there is a real shot he moves to guard which would lead him to be much more coveted by the Chargers.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...sive-linemen-to-watch-at-the-2026-nfl-combine
 
Chargers Daily Links: Wednesday Open Thread

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INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - FEBRUARY 25: General manager Joe Hortiz of the Los Angeles Chargers speaks to the media during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 25, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:


Check out highlights from Joe Hortiz’s presser at the NFL Combine (Chargers.com)

Chargers Mock Draft Tracker 5.0 (Chargers.com)

Joe Hortiz went into detail on how Chris O’Leary became the next defensive coordinator for the Chargers (Chargers Wire)

Mehki Becton’s future with the Chargers remains up in the air (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:


Check out Mel Kiper’s latest 2026 first-round mock draft (ESPN)

Kyler Murray said he has not spoken to the Cardinals in recent days, refuting what their GM recently told the media (ESPN)

Where could Jeremiyah Love, the nation’s top RB prospect, land in the NFL? (CBS Sports)

Four free agent fits and two trades that need to happen (NFL.com)

Aaron Glenn told reporters at the combine that “calling defensive plays is my superpower” (Pro Football Talk)

Brandon Aubrey and the Cowboys remain far apart in contract talks (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...64/chargers-daily-links-wednesday-open-thread
 
Chargers have interview schedueld w/ Memphis OT Travis Burke

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BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA - OCTOBER 18: Travis Burke #78 of the Memphis Tigers looks on against the UAB Blazers during the first half at Protective Stadium on October 18, 2025 in Birmingham, Alabama. (Photo by Wes Hale/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Formal and interview season for draft prospects has officially started!

In the first of many reports regarding the Chargers meeting with this year’s draft class, Justin Melo of Sports Illustrated has highlighted four teams who have a formal meeting scheduled with Memphis offensive tackle Travis Burke at this year’s NFL combine.

The other three teams that are set to meet with Burke are the Jaguars, Cardinals, and Colts.

Sources: Memphis OT Travis Burke has formal interviews scheduled at the NFL Combine with the following teams:

• Los Angeles Chargers
• Jacksonville Jaguars
• Arizona Cardinals
• Indianapolis Colts

Started 11 games in 2025 for the Tigers at RT.

— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) February 25, 2026

Burke is a 6’9, 315-pound lineman whose college career spanned stints at three different schools, beginning with Gardner-Webb (2021-2022) then moving to FIU (2023-2024), before culminating at Memphis in 2025.

After redshirting his first season at Gardner-Webb, Burke played in 14 games in 2022. Once at FIU, Burke then started all 22 games he played in during his redshirt sophomore and junior seasons. In his final collegiate season with the Tigers, Burke started 11 games at right tackle before his season was cut short with a foot injury. However, he was still named a First-Team All-CUSA selection and is currently healthy heading into the combine.

Travis Burke manages to both give his guard a chance to overtake the 4 and chip the Will on this screen play.

Impressive movement from the 6'9" 315 pound tackle prospect. Could have a big week in Indy. pic.twitter.com/wsDMpJuEI2

— Jack Guiley (@guiley_jack) February 21, 2026

If the 2025 season showed us anything, it’s that the Chargers depth at offensive tackle behind both Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt was simply not good enough. You obviously cannot plan to lose both star tackles together in one season, but hindsight shows a lack of preparation in the team’s moves for both Austin Deculus and Trevor Penning.

Even with Slater and Alt expected to be healthy and ready to roll to begin training camp, expect the Bolts to bring in a decent amount of competition for the spots behind them this offseason.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...interview-schedueld-w-memphis-ot-travis-burke
 
4 DL for the Chargers to watch at the NFL Combine

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CHAMPAIGN, IL - NOVEMBER 01: Illinois Fighting Illini OLB Gabe Jacas (17) during a college football game between the Rutgers Scarlet Knights and Illinois Fighting Illini on November 1, 2025 at Gies Memorial Stadium in Champaign, IL (Photo by James Black/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The 2026 NFL Combine begins their on-air coverage today with both the defensive linemen and linebackers taking the field for the 40-yard dash and other athletic testing. There’s quite a few standout players at both positions and the Chargers will have likely have their eyes on a number of them.

As we get set to start taking the week’s athletic feats, here’s a quick batch of players I’d like to see the Chargers keep a close eye on in Indianapolis.

DT Lee Hunter, Texas Tech​


A mountain of a man nicknamed “The Fridge”, Hunter has the chance to be the first defensive tackle off the board. He was key in making the Red Raiders’ defense one of the best in the nation which allowed Tech to make the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history.

At nearly 6’4 and 318 pounds. Hunter is a stout, two-gaping defensive tackle with the natural girth and length to be a disruptor in the middle. He’ll need to show some more athleticism to prove he can be a solid three-down player at the next level, but there’s more than enough here for him to affect the game on those first two downs.

Working on a profile of Emmanuel Pregnon, but had to pause to just say that Lee Hunter rips, man. pic.twitter.com/6LkUmspstg

— Ryan Parish (@RyanParishmedia) February 23, 2026

DT Dominique Orange, Iowa State​


“The Big Citrus” is a promising interior defender with good size (6’2, 322) and massive mitts (10.5 inches). He succeeds as a run defender who strains and wins with solid technique and an ability to recover even if he loses immediately off the snap. Scouts have called him a “non-factor” as a pass rusher so there’s an obvious shortcoming in his game, but that shows just how much they also love his run defense. His quick reaction time helps him avoid being ear-holed on down blocks and hold his ground at the point of attack.

He’ll likely come off the board on day two, which is where I’d prefer the Bolts take an interior defender, if at all.

Dominique Orange pro comp: Snorlax

Often immovable nose tackle who regularly resets the LOS, 2-gaps, and commands double teams at 6’2, 320+lbs 🍊 pic.twitter.com/le1hlQfquA

— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) February 26, 2026

EDGE Gabe Jacas, Illinois​


Jacas is a player who reportedly has many more fans amongst inner league circles compared to those on the outside. He has great length at 6’4 and 260 with 33-inch arms and 10-inch hands. The tape shows a player with standout strength at the point of attack who will rag-doll tight ends should an offense choose to leave them one-on-one.

An anonymous NFC scout called Jacas a “play-through-your-face-type” player and that line alone is enough to make me intrigued. If the Chargers are unable to keep the trio of Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu, and Odafe Oweh together for 2026, Jacas is a name I’d love to see the Bolts look into with their second-round pick.

Gabe Jacas | ED | 6-3 260 LBS

Ideal size and strong pass-rush production (27 sacks), winning with speed-to-power, quickness, and a high motor. Average run defender who struggles with leverage, anchoring, and hand usage, average first-step explosion.

Shades of: Tuli Tuipulotu pic.twitter.com/7M78dFXaqR

— Price Carter (@priceacarter) February 15, 2026

EDGE Nadame Tucker, Western Michigan​


Tucker led the nation in sacks with 14.5 while being coached by new Chargers defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary. That’s an impressive true statement about him because the 2025 season was first season as a full-time player at the FBS level.

At 6’2 and 247 pounds, Tucker is on the smaller with average length (31 3/8 inches) and small hands (9 inches). Expectations are that he’ll have to take some more time to acclimate to the pro level, but his natural feel for the game that he showed this past season may earn him an early role as a designated pass rusher. Tucker will surely be picked late on day three, but the Chargers could do a lot worse with a dart throw than reuniting him with O’Leary in a defense he already understands.

Nadame Tucker | EDGE | Western Michigan
6’2 255 lbs

➕21.0 TFLs/14.5 Sacks in 2025
➕MAC DPOY
➕Active Hands
➕Leverage and Pad Level

➖Late bloomer (turns 26 in June)
➖One year of production
➖Lacks ideal frame for NFL Edge

Overall: Tucker is a high effort Edge that will… pic.twitter.com/9lo2ONG5gh

— Omari (@OmariiBrown) February 16, 2026

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-for-the-chargers-to-watch-at-the-nfl-combine
 
2 winners, 1 small loser from Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Combine

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GAINESVILLE, FL - OCTOBER 05: UCF Knights defensive end Malachi Lawrence (51) during the game between the Florida Gators and the UCF Knights on October 5, 2024 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium at Florida Field in Gainesville, Fl. (Photo by David Rosenblum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The first day of the 2026 NFL Combine has come and gone with defensive linemen and edge rushers having performed for the litany of scouts, coaches, and executives in attendance.

There was a decent amount of Jim Harbaugh shown on screen during the day’s drills and the head honcho of the Bolts looked locked in the whole way. How could he not? He was watching mountainous men leap and run and traverse the field at Lucas Oil Stadium for well over three hours. What wasn’t there to love?

Luckily for him, he got to watch a number of eye-popping performances.

Here are two of those players that stood out on Thursday and two others that didn’t quite shine as expected.

Winners​


DT Caleb Banks, Florida

After making waves during the Panini Senior Bowl, Banks followed suit at the NFL combine by putting together one of the best relative athletic scores for a defensive tackle ever.

After measuring in at 6’6 1/4” and 327 pounds, Banks jumped 32” in the vertical and 9’6” in the broad, good for seventh and second at the position on Thursday, respectively. His 5.05 in the 40 was very much “fine” given his size and the position he plays.

Caleb Banks is a DT prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 9.84 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 34 out of 2046 DT from 1987 to 2026.

Splits projected, all times unofficial, agilities left to run.https://t.co/qcTjqsIuuv pic.twitter.com/ffVzXNsc3A

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 26, 2026

EDGE Malachi Lawrence, Central Florida

Most likely one of the most unheralded edge rushers in this class, UCF’s Lawrence put on a show at the NFL Combine with very impressive marks across the board.

At 6’4 and 253 pounds, Lawrence showed elite explosiveness with a 40” vertical and a 10’10” in the broad jump. His 4.52 in the 40-yard dash was second best only to Texas Tech’s Davin Bailey (a potential top-three pick in the draft) and his 1.59 10-yard split was also second best in the class.

Malachi Lawrence 1.58 10-yard split matches his big-time vert (40") and broad jump (10'10").

He was already in my top-100, but he's making a case to go in the top-2 rounds.

— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) February 26, 2026

In a class that features a lot of intriguing talent behind TTU’s Bailey for the top players at the position, Lawrence most certainly made some money with his performance. His combination of length and athleticism will give him a decent floor in the NFL, but consistency at setting the edge and staying gap sound will be his biggest areas of improvement to work on prior to the draft.

Losers​


DT Lee Hunter, Texas Tech

Hunter was regarded as a surefire first-round pick after being a massive difference-maker for the Red Raiders in 2025. The First-Team All-American was not expected to blow the socks off evaluators with his testing, but some of his numbers, especially in the explosiveness testing, are hard to look at.

With 21.5 inches in the vertical, Hunter was the worst-performing player on the day by six full inches. That’s also the fourth-lowest mark in the event by a defensive tackle since 2013. Still, the film shows an explosiveness in Hunter that helped him disrupt and rattle opposing protection plans. This isn’t enough to drop Hunter out of the first round, but it might create a doubt or two in regards to the correlation between these low numbers and the future NFL success of the player.

Lee Hunter is a DT prospect in the 2026 draft class. He scored an unofficial 3.72 RAS out of a possible 10.00. This ranked 1285 out of 2046 DT from 1987 to 2026.

Splits projected, all times unofficial, agilities left to run.https://t.co/sGWkDm89Mu pic.twitter.com/1HtiR9uKjD

— RAS.football (@MathBomb) February 26, 2026

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...mall-loser-from-day-1-of-the-2026-nfl-combine
 
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