The Los Angeles Chargers have made significant strides to bolster their offense during the 2025 NFL free agency period. After experiencing struggles last season, particularly with their interior offensive line, the team has signed former first-round pick Mekhi Becton to improve their prospects. Becton inked a two-year contract on March 15, 2025, coming off a season with the Philadelphia Eagles where he contributed significantly to their rushing game and protection of quarterback Jalen Hurts.
By signing Becton, the Chargers aim to fortify their offensive line, which has been identified as one of their primary weaknesses. Last season, quarterback Justin Herbert faced considerable pressure, particularly from the middle of the line. The addition of the 6-foot-7, 363-pound Becton is hoped to provide the necessary protection for Herbert and create more running opportunities for new signing Najee Harris. Harris joined the team just days before Becton's signing on March 10, 2025, with hopes of revamping the team's running game, which has struggled for years.
Becton's experience is highlighted by his prior success, including paves the way for running back Saquon Barkley's impressive 2022 season, where Barkley rushed over 2,000 yards and scored 13 touchdowns, earning the title of Offensive Player of the Year. Given his achievements during his stint with the Eagles, it's clear why the Chargers see him as an integral piece to their offensive restructuring. Not only did he protect Hurts, but Becton also finished with impressive stats, including contributing to Hurts' passer rating of 103.7.
The Chargers’ new management, led by Coach Jim Harbaugh, is focused on creating an imposing offensive front, exemplified by Becton's signing. The team is reported to have evaluated their current offensive line players, including Bradley Bozeman, Zion Johnson, and Trey Pipkins III, whose run block win rates were among the lowest last season. There are speculations about potential roster adjustments, with Becton’s signing possibly leading to Pipkins’ release to save $6.75 million against the salary cap.
Looking forward to the upcoming NFL Draft, where the Chargers will have the 22nd overall pick, there are possibilities of more talent being added to their roster. Recent discussions indicated the team might prioritize skill positions to complement Becton and bolster their offensive capabilities. Following the latest mock draft by The 33rd Team, the Chargers are favored to select Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden. Golden, who recorded 58 receptions for 987 yards and 9 touchdowns with Texas, showcases remarkable speed, having clocked 4.29 seconds at the combine.
The Chargers’ recent moves signal they are not just focused on building the offensive line but also on giving Herbert the necessary tools to succeed. Wide receiver Mike Williams, who had previously parted ways with the Chargers as a cap casualty, re-signed on March 10 for one year, aiming to add depth and experience to the receiving corps. Williams, once effective with Herbert, recorded 1,146 receiving yards and nine touchdowns during his best season in 2021.
Along with these additions, the Chargers have sought to improve their defensive line as well, signing players like Naquan Jones, Da'Shawn Hand, and Donte Jackson. Each signing adds depth and experience to fill gaps left by recent departures. Jones recorded career peaks with three sacks last season, enhancing the Chargers' defensive forecast.
The Philadelphia Eagles, on the other hand, are projected to reap compensatory draft picks as they lose Becton. This places them well for future draft opportunities, as they are now aligned to accumulate significant draft capital. They’re expected to have five of the top 100 picks by the 2026 NFL Draft, which positions them favorably for building their roster long-term.
The Eagles demonstrated their forward-thinking by accruing multiple high-value picks which they hope to use to either select top prospects or as trade leverage. Such strategies are indicative of the franchise’s commitment to sustainability and competitive excellence. While losing Becton might be seen as detrimental, the Eagles seem poised to continue their pursuit of excellence through astute roster management.
With the 2025 NFL Draft approaching on April 24, all eyes will be on the Chargers and Eagles as they aim to solidify their strategies during the offseason period. The Chargers seek to secure their standing as contenders, building around Herbert, Becton, and Harris, whereas the Eagles aim to maintain their competitiveness through calculated acquisitions of draft capital and young talent.
For the Chargers, the combination of physical presence and skillful playmakers could finally help them regain their status as formidable contenders within the league. Transitioning through free agency and entering the draft season, it seems they’re focused on achieving their best outcome for the upcoming NFL season.