The Chargers are continuing to add to their offensive line after struggling to protect Justin Herbert in 2025. Former Lions guard Kayode Awosika is the latest blocker to sign in Los Angeles, per a team announcement.
Awosika appeared in 13 games for Detroit last season with four starts at left guard during Christian Mahogany‘s absence. The five-year veteran played at a replacement level with a 57.9 grade from Pro Football Focus (subscription required) that ranked 54th out of 87 guards with at least 250 snaps.
Originally an offensive tackle at the University of Buffalo, Awosika signed with the Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2021. He spent his rookie season one the practice squad with almost a full game of action at right guard in Week 18.
Philadelphia waived Awosika during final roster cuts in 2022. He made his way to Detroit, where a reserve guard role awaited him. Over the next four years, the 27-year-old appeared in 49 games with 11 starts, all at guard, with 25 snaps at tackle.
That versatility will be valued in Los Angeles where the Chargers are rebuilding their offensive line after a rough 2025 season. Offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt are recovering from season-ending surgeries with the expectation of playing in 2026. But, as general manager Joe Hortiz knows from his time in Baltimore with Ronnie Stanley, speedy returns to elite form is not an easy feat at one of the game’s toughest position. As a result, re-signed offensive linemen Trevor Penning and Trey Pipkins could be needed at tackle, leaving them unavailable to start or back up the guard spots. Awosika filled that role in Detroit for the last four years and should be able to continue in Los Angeles under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.