Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert endured a brutal 2025 season, getting sacked 54 times. That's no way for a franchise quarterback to operate, and the Chargers front office clearly agreed.

In response, the team made aggressive moves this offseason. They fortified the offensive line through free agency and selected three linemen in the NFL Draft. The message is clear: protect the team's most valuable asset at all costs.

Now, the question is whether those rookies can deliver when it counts. According to Sports Illustrated's Daniel Flick, one rookie in particular could be the key. Flick projects that Florida center Jake Slaughter—listed as a guard by the Chargers—could be L.A.'s best draft pick in 2026.

"Slaughter is quick-footed and athletic, a good fit for new Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel," Flick wrote. "He'll enter a three-man competition for the two guard spots with a good chance at getting the nod in Week 1. He's a former team captain at Florida. That's a good blend of tools."

For Herbert, this projection is more than just a headline. It's a potential lifeline. Despite his elite talent, Herbert is 0-3 in the postseason. He's yet to deliver when the stakes are highest. But with improved protection and McDaniel—a coordinator who made Tua Tagovailoa look elite—the pieces are finally in place.

After back-to-back 11-win seasons with no playoff wins, the time has come for Herbert to prove he can carry this team where it needs to go. If Slaughter lives up to the hype, Herbert might finally have the time and support to do just that.