The San Diego Chargers have added a quality piece to their offensive line.
The team announced Monday they have signed veteran guard Matt Slauson to a two-year contract. Slauson visited with both the Bolts and the Bills after being released by the Bears last weekend. The Chargers confirmed the signing Monday.
Slauson, 30, is in line to be an immediate contributor in San Diego. He has the versatility to play both inside and outside on the line, but will likely step in as the Chargers' starting center.
Last season, Slauson graded out as the 18th-best guard in the NFL, according to analytics site ProFootballFocus.com. He was particularly strong in pass protection, allowing just one sack in 16 starts with Chicago. The Bears made the surprise move to part ways with the veteran after they used a second-round pick on guard Cody Whitehair.
Word of this signing will sound like sweet music to Philip Rivers, who has another able body in front of him as he begins his 13th season this fall.