The Chargers had a void to fill after splitting ways with veteran nose tackle Brandon Mebane this offseason.
To do so, Los Angeles signed two-time Pro Bowl selection Linval Joseph to a two-year deal back in March.
Joseph, the 6-foot-4 and 329 pounder, has stood out to his new teammates for his gigantic size at training camp.
Joseph, who’s been walking interior offensive linemen back with ease in practices, was called “probably the strongest human I’ve ever came across” by defensive end Joey Bosa.
Joseph is coveted for his ability to draw double teams due to his size and strength. That will make life easier for those on the edge, including Bosa and Melvin Ingram, as it allows more one-on-one matchups.
“He’s gonna occupy one or maybe two every single time he’s in there. He should demand a double team or he’s just gonna be walking people back,” Bosa said.
Other lines that Joseph has been referred to by his teammates include “a mobile home,” “a walking refrigerator,” and “a running Coke machine.”
Joseph’s presence will be huge in the trenches, as he looks to make an impact both as a pass-rusher and run defender.
In 2019, Joseph tallied 44 tackles (26 solos), six tackles for loss, and three sacks. He also earned a grade of 71.2 from Pro Football Focus, marking the eighth straight season he’s received a grade above 70.