The Chargers are a depleted bunch heading into Week 5 of the 2026 season.
It doesn't help that they sit at 0-4, with the possibility of going 0-5 staring them down right in the face.
On top of that, the Chargers could be short on offensive linemen, leaving them no choice but to start four rookies against the Broncos, which was an occurrence towards the end of the Week 4 game against the Seahawks.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh said that if they go that route, he'd be confident in's the unit, as it impressed him so far this week.
"I saw a confident demanor, one that was ready to accept the challenge," Harbaugh said.
"Brought some memories back, being a player, what that felt like when I was put in that position and the feeling of stepping up to the challenge."
There is a chance the Chargers have four rookies on the offensive line protecting Justin Herbert: Logan Taylor (left tackle), Jake Slaughter (left guard), Jacob Spomer (center) and Travis Burke (right tackle).
The only non-rookie starter would be Cole Strange at the right guard spot.
There's a chance the offensive line is night and day compared to Week 1, but the Chargers are in a tough spot.
Offensive tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater will miss Week 5 with their respective injuries. Alt is dealing with a neck issue, and Slater has an ankle injury and is a candidate for the injury reserve.
Other offensive linemen currently out for the season or missing time include Kayode Awosika, Trevor Penning, Tyler Biadasz (on IR), and Trey Pipkins (on IR).
The Chargers may roll out an inexperienced group as their offensive-line woes continue into the 2026 season.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Jim Harbaugh praises Chargers rookies amid potential OL shakeup
