For the most part, the Chargers have all of the starting jobs fulfilled ahead of the regular season. However, the right tackle spot is one of the very few exceptions.
Los Angeles entered this offseason with the position seen as one of its holes after Bryan Bulaga was released. However, after passing up on the free agency pool and draft altogether, the team seems comfortable with returners Trey Pipkins and Storm Norton battling it out for the job.
Following the first day of organized team activities (OTAs), Brandon Staley reiterated that, saying that they are excited to see Pipkins and Norton “duke it out” throughout the summer. Staley also added that they’re also considering Matt Feiler for the right tackle position.
Norton was the starting right tackle last season, and he had his fair share of struggles, allowing 60 pressures and nine sacks. Pipkins played well in his two starts in 2021 and has spent this offseason working with highly touted offensive line developer Duke Manyweather.
As for Feiler, he has played right tackle in his career while he was with the Steelers. However, it would not surprise if, ultimately, the Chargers want to keep the left-side trio of tackle Rashawn Slater, Feiler, and center Corey Linsley intact.
But should Feiler actually make his case to be the starting right tackle, second-year Brenden Jaimes and rookie Jamaree Salyer would compete for the starting left guard spot, while first-round pick Zion Johnson mans right guard.
This will be one of the most compelling position battles this summer.
