The Los Angeles Chargers have bolstered their offensive line by signing center Andre James to a one-year contract on March 18, 2025. This move comes as the Chargers gear up for another competitive season in the AFC West, and aims to strengthen their position on the field.
James, formerly of the Las Vegas Raiders, brings with him significant experience, having started 11 games in the 2024 season. His tenure in the NFL has been marked by notable success; he has played a total of 89 games, with 60 starts, since entering the league as an undrafted free agent in 2019. At just 27 years old, he is looking to make a significant impact as he returns to Southern California, where he spent his college years playing for the UCLA Bruins.
In 2024, James showcased impressive skills, allowing two or fewer pressures in eight of the eleven games he played. He finished the season ranked eighth among all interior linemen based on ESPN's pass-block win rate, boasting a solid figure of 96%. These statistics underscore his potential contribution to the Chargers, particularly as the team looks to enhance its offensive capabilities.
However, the Chargers will not be handing James the starting position without a fight. Bradley Bozeman, who started all 17 regular season games at center for the team last year, will also be competing for the role. While Bozeman performed admirably in the running game, he struggled in pass protection, allowing a significant number of pressures and finishes among the bottom tier of centers graded by Pro Football Focus. This competition is set to play out during the training camp, suggesting high stakes for both players.
James’ move back to Los Angeles is more than just a homecoming; it is an opportunity for him to reclaim his status as one of the league’s reliable centers. His career-best performances in 2023, where he achieved an offensive grade of 74.6 and a pass-blocking grade of 71.2, have raised expectations for this coming season. The Chargers clearly see potential in James to elevate their offensive line, which has been a focal point for improvement.
As the team prepares for training camp, the Chargers are looking to foster a competitive environment that will push both Bozeman and James to elevate their play. The stakes are high, given the AFC West's competitive nature, and every position matters as teams vie for playoff spots.
Chargers fans have much to look forward to as James aims to leverage his experiences from the Raiders as well as his time at UCLA to contribute in a positive way for the Chargers. His track record speaks for itself, and the expectation is not just to meet standards but to exceed them.
The pressures of the NFL are high, but both James and Bozeman are determined to secure the starting position, and ultimately, this could lead to a more formidable offensive front for the Chargers. With the right interim success during camp, one of them could define the starting unit that will look to protect quarterback Justin Herbert and open up running lanes for the Chargers’ dynamic offense.
In summary, Andre James' signing is not just a simple roster move; it represents a strategic response to the competitive landscape of the AFC West. His experience and skill set could provide the Chargers with the edge they need to accelerate their playoff ambitions. The upcoming season is ripe with possibilities as the Chargers shape their squad for contention.
