While the Chargers‘ offensive line woes continued all throughout this season, there may be some positive news concerning the extension of a key piece along that line.
The Chargers’ 2022 first round draft selection, Zion Johnson, has recently shown stellar signs of play on the field, with positive comments coming his way in recent weeks. What with his positional versatility, his scheme fit for a run-heavy offense, or his ability to have a high IQ on certain plays, he was considered a no-brainer selection for the Bolts.
However, signs of decline occurred after his second year in the league. In his rookie season, Johnson logged over 1,000 snaps, giving the Chargers a much needed boost at the right guard position. Little improvements were seen however from his first to second year and worries were that Johnson hadn’t fully adapted to the NFL.
Early Promise, Lingering Concerns, and a Turning Point
One major concern was his ability to identify stunts and overall communication along the line. This reared its ugly head in his third year in the league, where he gave up a career high seven sacks.
Now in his fourth season, before his pivotal contract year in 2026, the Chargers are faced with an interesting conundrum. According to offensive coordinator Greg Roman however, it may not be so complex after all.
Johnson has shown better signs of life in his fourth year, although some might say not necessarily to an exceptional extent. He is however highly commended by Roman. Said Roman of Johnson’s overall play and improvement this season:” All that devotion on his part has paid off. I think he’s playing the best football of his career.”
A Renewed Vote of Confidence as Extension Talks Loom
After all, the Chargers may need all the help they can get when it comes to the O-line. That position group has been a point of great pain for the Chargers as they haven not been very lucky in terms of overall health. With Johnson being able to fill may roles, perhaps this potential extension was written in the cards all along.
If one also looks at his stats compared to last year, as mentioned, they are not overly impressive, but still important improvements in his development. His 26 pressures allowed are down seven from last season’s total and he has only allowed three sacks all year. Add in a career high in pass efficiency grade from PFF, and Johnson looks like a sure bet to be retained for next year.
Overall, this sounds like a resounding vote of confidence in Johnson by the organization. What with several failures to identify potential reinforcements, it feels good to know that a guy like Johnson will be relied upon next season. Most impressively is that with Johnson receiving rest for this Sunday’s game against the Broncos, it will only be his third missed game across his four year career.
“Every week consistently really good,” Harbaugh said of Johnson “He’s one of my favorites on the team. Nobody I love more than Zion (Johnson).” Not a bad endorsement.
Greg Roman Gives Positive Update on Johnson Extension