The Chargers are reuniting a former Dolphins offensive lineman with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
Per NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Bolts are inking offensive guard Cole Strange to a two-year, $13 million deal. With no starting guards on the roster, Strange immediately steps into on of those vacancies, but at that price tag, there’s just as strong of a chance he ends up being a backup. But for now, the veteran brings a familiarity to the Chargers as they transition to McDaniel’s wide zone
offense.
In 2025, Strange played 808 snaps for the Dolphins where he allowed two sacks, 21 pressures, and was called for just one penalty. Both the sack and pressure totals allowed were a career low when he’s played at minimum 500 snaps in a season. However, his Pro Football Focus grades tell a bit of a different story.
Strange finished the 2025 season with a 57.0 run block grade and a 42.2 pass block grade. Both numbers are below average and his pass block grade placed him well into the lower third of qualifying guards. I understand the importance of finding guys who have experience in the new offense, but this profile doesn’t scream as savvy as a move compared to the Biadasz and Kolar signings. The money is high for a backup and the recent performance is low for a starter.
I’m not sure how we’ll look back on this addition a year from now, but there’s going to be plenty of questions in the meantime if this really is one of the Chargers’ starting guards in 2026.
