Chargers Face Offensive Line Crisis as Will Clapp Retires

The Los Angeles Chargers enter the 2026 offseason confronting a depleted offensive line. The retirement of Will Clapp adds to existing concerns after veteran center Bradley Bozeman also stepped away. For a team relying on quarterback Justin Herbert to thrive in newly hired offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s timing-based system, the departures create immediate pressure to fill critical interior positions.

Clapp’s career trajectory reflects steady reliability. Drafted in the seventh round by the New Orleans Saints in 2018, he later joined the Chargers, starting 14 games across two seasons. Known for his ability to play both guard and center, Clapp often served as a stabilizing presence when injuries forced lineup shuffles.

The announcement of his retirement, confirmed by Ari Meirov on X, comes as Los Angeles continues evaluating a line that was heavily impacted by injuries last season. Star tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt missed time, and depth players like Mekhi Becton were unavailable for stretches, exposing vulnerabilities in protection.

Bozeman’s exit compounds the issue. A consistent starter and locker-room leader over the past two seasons, his absence leaves the Chargers searching for both starting experience and depth. Maintaining stability on the offensive line is now a top priority as the team enters an offseason that will define Herbert’s protection for the near future.

1. Clapp’s Career and Impact

Will Clapp’s NFL career spanned stints with the Saints, Chargers, and Buffalo Bills, totaling 66 games and 22 starts. While never a marquee name, his value was measured in versatility and dependability. Clapp’s ability to fill multiple roles on the interior line made him an important resource during injury crises. He could slide between guard and center positions, allowing coaches to adjust schemes without severely disrupting the offensive flow. For a Chargers team with an evolving offensive system, Clapp’s flexibility helped bridge gaps when starters were unavailable. His presence allowed Herbert to maintain timing and rhythm even when the line was shuffled due to injury. His retirement signals the loss of an experienced, steadying influence—one often undervalued until it is missing. Teams frequently rely on players like Clapp to preserve offensive continuity during turbulent stretches.

2. Chargers’ Line Instability

The Chargers’ interior line was tested repeatedly during the 2025 season. Injuries to Slater and Alt forced constant adjustments, and Becton’s absences further highlighted depth limitations. Herbert faced increased pressure and sack totals climbed at key points of the season. Bozeman’s retirement deepens the vulnerability. He provided leadership and consistency at center, serving as both a physical anchor and a mentor to younger linemen. Without him, Los Angeles faces the challenge of maintaining cohesion while integrating new or unproven players. Offensive coordinator McDaniel’s timing-heavy approach depends on precision from the line. Any lapse in protection can disrupt the quarterback’s rhythm, reduce the effectiveness of run-pass options, and increase injury risk. The Chargers now must assess both internal promotion and potential free-agent options to shore up the unit. Stability on the line is a prerequisite for Herbert’s success and the team’s offensive consistency.

3. Planning for the Offseason

Addressing the departures requires careful strategy. Los Angeles must target both experienced interior linemen and developmental prospects to ensure depth and continuity. Draft considerations, trades, and free-agent signings will be critical. Coaching evaluations will focus on flexibility and scheme fit, with a priority on players who can adjust to McDaniel’s timing-based offensive system. Finding linemen who can protect Herbert and sustain run-blocking schemes will shape offseason priorities. The Chargers’ front office will need to balance short-term starters with long-term developmental options, ensuring the unit can withstand injury and perform consistently across a 17-game season. Clapp’s departure underscores the urgency of this planning. If managed effectively, Los Angeles can rebuild the interior line and restore protection for Herbert, but the task is immediate and essential. The team cannot afford prolonged instability without jeopardizing the quarterback’s prime years.