One of the biggest names on the free agent market in terms of offensive lineman is now off the board. Barksdale will re-sign the Chargers, according to Michael Gehlken of the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Chargers RT Joe Barksdale not going anywhere. “We got the deal done. I’ll be signing tomorrow.” Was scheduled to hit free agency Wednesday.
— Michael Gehlken (@sdutGehlken) March 8, 2016
Chargers used 24 unique O-line combinations in 2015. Now, they’re back to drawing board: https://t.co/pQtUrNETNdpic.twitter.com/dJYhr0g96V
— Michael Gehlken (@sdutGehlken) March 7, 2016
As you can see by the chart above San Diego’s offensive line a year ago was a complete mess. The return of Barksdale is significant in terms of bringing stability to that offensive line. Barksdale started all 16 games for the Chargers grading out as the 21st best offensive tackle in football according to Pro Football Focus.
A third round pick of the Oakland Raiders in 2011 really found his stride in San Diego after having limited success in Oakland and St. Louis. San Diego should have plenty of cap space to make additional moves this offseason.
The terms of the deal is for four years. The amount of money the Chargers spent to retain the big man has not been announced yet.
