Chargers general manager Tom Telesco has some challenging decisions coming in free agency. With a projected amount of a little more than $18 million in cap space, he and the rest of the front office will have to be wise if they choose to make some big signings when the new year begins on March 13.
Los Angeles will have 13 players to decide whether they will keep or let them hit the market. Some have proven themselves, and others can’t seem to stay healthy for a full 16-game slate. No matter the direction they go, they still have holes to address at various positions, including the offensive line.
Right tackle Sam Tevi and guard Dan Feeney had a down season, and one that was so poor that their starting jobs will likely be replaced by someone else next season. One player that could draw the Bolts’ attention to fill the void is free agent guard Rodger Saffold.
Pro Football Focus released projected landing spots for the top free agents in the NFL, and the Chargers were linked with Saffold.
Guard has been a nightmare for the Chargers the past couple years. Left guard Dan Feeney allowed the most pressures of any guard in the NFL this past season.
After his phenomenal seasons with the Rams, he may demand a little bit more money. He was previously on a contract for five years worth $30.3 million. For Los Angeles, he could be worth every penny given how horrid the offensive line play has been.
Saffold finished the season with a run-blocking grade of 72.8, ranking No. 4 out of 88 qualifying guards. He flourished in pass protection, as he allowed only 25 total pressures (17 hurries, five hits, three sacks) on 608 pass-blocking snaps, per Pro Football Focus.
Bringing in Saffold provides a high-level player, joining the veteran presence of center Mike Pouncey and left tackle Russell Okung. This would also save them from drafting one, and using that pick for another position of need in the 2019 NFL draft.
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