Chargers named best fit for former first-round offensive tackle in free agency

Before the 2025 campaign, the Los Angeles Chargers were slated to have arguably the best offensive tackle pairing in the NFL with Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt.

However, we never got a chance to find out if it would be, as Slater got hurt during training camp and was forced to miss the season. Now, Alt is also done for the year after suffering another ankle injury that required surgery.

With the Chargers down bad at the tackle spots, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox thinks the Chargers should sign former Cleveland Browns first-round selection, Jedrick Wills Jr.

"The 2020 No. 10 overall pick would be a sensible gamble for a team that has had injuries at offensive tackle, like the Los Angeles Chargers, who traded for Trevor Penning at the deadline but who have lost both Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater for the season," Knox wrote.

So, right off the bat, there is a huge problem with this idea.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Wills could sit out the entire 2025 season due to lingering knee issues, with the goal of getting back healthy for 2026.

"Sources: Free agent OT Jedrick Wills, who dealt with a lingering knee injury last season, is planning to sit out most — or possibly all — of the upcoming season to fully recover and get back to 100%," Schultz wrote in June.

"Wills, the former Browns’ top 10 pick, has drawn interest from multiple teams and is still just 26 years old — but he believes taking this time off is the best move for the long-term future of his career."

That was a long time ago, so maybe something has changed, but so far there has been nothing to indicate Wills is ready to play this season.

If Wills is ready to play, the Chargers would be wise to take a flyer on him.

Granted, the former No. 10 overall pick has been a major disappointment during his career, but he likely wouldn't cost much and it's not like the Chargers are loaded with great options at tackle right now.

If Wills is ready to return to the field, the Chargers should be first in line to sign him.

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