Chargers Make Confusing Signing of Former Raiders Draft Bust
The Los Angeles Chargers have undergone a massive overturn this offseason. They have Jim Harbaugh now as the lead man as he replaced Brandon Staley.
Some veteran playmakers like Mike Williams and Keenan Allen are no longer on the team as the Chargers turn the page. Harbaugh has put his imprint on the roster over the last couple of moves as they look to become a more physical roster.
They've added Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins, and Bradley Bozeman in free agency before selecting Joe Alt with the fifth overall pick.
Despite these solid additions, the Chargers' latest move is certainly head-scratching.
Chargers News: Los Angeles Has Signed OT Alex Leatherwood
According to the Athletic's Daniel Popper, the Chargers are signing former Las Vegas OT Alex Leatherwood.
Leatherwood was the 17th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft by the Raiders but has struggled since entering the league.
As a rookie in 2021, he played in all 18 games but committed 14 penalties and allowed eight sacks. He finished with an underwhelming 45 offensive PFF grade.
His struggles at both guard and tackle led to him being released by the Raiders in Aug. 2022. He then appeared in four games for the Chicago Bears in 2022 before spending part of the 2023 season on the Cleveland Browns practice squad.
Even though the contract details haven't been released, this will likely be a one-year, low-cost deal. Harbaugh has an affinity for the offensive line so the position group isn't shocking. The Chargers clearly like his physical makeup and believe he could revive his career in Los Angeles.
Only time will tell if this was the right move.
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