The Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive line has drawn scrutiny from Pro Football Focus, landing at No. 23 in the organization’s latest 2026 rankings. While the team boasts talented edge rushers in Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu, concerns about the interior defensive line have prevented the unit from climbing higher in the evaluation.
Mack demonstrated strong run-defense capabilities last season with an 80.7 grade, while Tuipulotu posted a 74.4 pass-rush grade. Rookie Akheem Mesidor is expected to contribute to the edge-rushing group. However, the interior presents a more troubling picture, with only Teair Tart earning a grade above 65.0 from the evaluation service. This weakness represents the primary reason for the middling ranking, according to PFF analyst Gordon McGuinness.
The starting interior combination of Jamaree Caldwell, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Tart will be tasked with addressing the unit’s shortcomings. Tart, bolstered by a recent contract extension, is expected to assume expanded responsibilities in a multi-gap role, potentially opening avenues for increased pass-rushing opportunities. Tomlinson, joining the Chargers for his first season with the franchise, hopes to rebound, while Caldwell aims to build on his promising rookie campaign.
Los Angeles’s divisional rival, the Las Vegas Raiders, followed closely at No. 24 in the same rankings.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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