The Los Angeles Chargers suffered a devastating loss when Rashawn Slater, their two-time All-Pro left tackle, was ruled out for the entire 2024 season due to a torn patellar tendon in his knee. The injury, announced just before the season began, abruptly ended Slater’s campaign and has left the Chargers scrambling to adjust their offensive line and protect quarterback Justin Herbert during the critical upcoming AFC West race.

Impact on Chargers’ Offensive Line and Season Outlook

Slater’s absence is a significant blow to the Chargers’ offensive front, which relied heavily on his protection and ability to open running lanes for backs like Omarion Hampton and Najee Harris. The 26-year-old lineman, who recently signed a lucrative four-year contract worth $114 million, including $92 million guaranteed, was expected to be a cornerstone of the team’s offense. Now, the Chargers must find a way to fill the void as they contend with defending their AFC West title against the Kansas City Chiefs, who have dominated the division for nearly a decade.

Experts Weigh in on Slater’s Injury and Team Challenges

Analysts quickly recognized the gravity of the situation. Former NFL lineman and commentator Damien Woody called the injury “devastating,” highlighting Slater as

“one of the best tackles and one of the best offensive linemen”

in the league and underscoring the blow to the Chargers’ lineup. Similarly, former NFL receiver Harry Douglas described the injury as “catastrophic,” emphasizing Slater’s role as the “main protector of Justin Herbert.” Douglas warned that the injury could shake the trust between Herbert and his offensive line, forcing the team into a difficult lineup shuffle at a crucial moment in their season.

No way around it … it’s devastating,

said analyst and former NFL lineman Damien Woody on Friday morning’s Get Up!.

He’s one of the best tackles and one of the best offensive linemen that we have in our game. He’s one of the best players on their team. It’s a huge blow.

He’s the main protector of Justin Herbert. So from a trust standpoint … now will that trust be there? And now you have to play musical chairs with your offensive line and that’s never ideal. One day you’re confident in a game plan running behind your horse, now the dynamics have totally changed. Jim Harbaugh wants to move a defense from Point A to Point B against its will. That’s compromised now.

—Harry Douglas, Analyst and Former NFL Receiver

Chargers Adjustments and Future Prospects After Key Loss

With Slater sidelined until at least 2026, the Chargers face the challenge of adapting their offensive strategy and personnel. The pressure will fall on backup linemen and coaching adjustments to maintain stability for Justin Herbert and the rushing attack. The injury also casts uncertainty over the team’s ability to keep pace with the Chiefs, who seek their 10th straight AFC West title.

Meanwhile, the Chargers have received some good news with the timely return of star wide receiver Keenan Allen, providing a bright spot amid the setback. However, the loss of Slater leaves a glaring gap in the offensive line’s core, making the road ahead much steeper as the Chargers aim to compete at a high level this season.