Chargers News: Bolts Could Target Former First-Round OT in Free Agency

Could be a low-risk, potentially high-reward move for Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Chargers have many needs across their roster, including within the offensive line. Protecting the quarterback was a big problem for the Bolts last season and with new head coach Jim Harbaugh now in the mix, they are expected to change that.

Harbaugh loves to build his teams out with strong play in the trenches that can overpower opponents. In order to make this a reality, the Bolts are going to need to bring in more talent to build their offensive line. 

They are expected to look in the upcoming NFL Draft for help, where they hold the fifth overall pick. But the Bolts could also look at taking a flier on a recently released tackle, Andre Dillard of the Tennesee Titans. 

The #Titans have released OT Andre Dillard, who carried a $10.7M cap hit.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 15, 2024

Dillard joined the Titans last offseason, making 10 starts and appearing in 16 games. Before joining Tennesee, Dillard spent four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was taken in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft out of Washington State. 

The veteran was horrendous in his first season with the Titans, allowing 12 sacks. He was tied for the most sacks given up in the NFL and he allowed 41 pressures. 

Dillard was benched multiple times throughout the year, but a change of scenery could be good for him. He was a major signing for the Titans last year, so the talent that earned him a three-year, $29 million deal is still there.

The Bolts have a need to upgrade their offensive line and Dillard could come at a cheap price. If anything, they could see how he is, to then make a judgment call. 

Dilliard is from the Washington area, so he is familiar with the West Coast. He could serve the Chargers well, giving them an experienced lineman to work with.