The Los Angeles Chargers are confronting a major setback as starting left tackle Rashawn Slater is sidelined for the entire season due to a torn patellar tendon. This injury comes shortly after Slater signed a four-year, $114 million contract extension, leaving a significant void on the offensive line. Alongside Slater’s absence, the team now faces uncertainty with newly signed guard Mekhi Becton also dealing with an injury that may not be minor, casting further doubt on the line’s strength just weeks before the season begins.
Adjustments in Lineup Highlight Charger’s Offensive Challenges
In response to Slater’s injury, Joe Alt has been assigned the left tackle position, while Trey Pipkins III shifts to the right tackle spot. Meanwhile, Mekhi Becton was signed to a two-year, $20 million contract intended to secure a guard position, bringing in his experience from the New York Jets and his recent role as a guard with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he started 16 games and contributed to their Super Bowl victory. However, with Becton’s injury status uncertain less than three weeks before kickoff, the Chargers have had to rethink both their interior and edge protection strategies.
Starting Lineup for Preseason Game Reflects Depth Concerns
During the Chargers’ preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Rams, Justin Herbert returned as the starting quarterback, protected by a revamped offensive line. The unit featured Joe Alt at left tackle, Zion Johnson and Bradley Bozeman at guard and center respectively, Jamaree Salyer back in the starting role, and Trey Pipkins III on the right tackle. This lineup highlights ongoing questions, particularly at the guard and center spots, where Johnson moved back to guard after some time cross-training at center, and Salyer’s return is a cause for concern among fans.
With Herbert slated to start, that means the Chargers will also roll out their current starting group up front. That group at Thursday’s session feature, from left to right, Joe Alt, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, Jamaree Salyer and Trey Pipkins III.
—staff
Outlook and Urgency for Recovery to Preserve Offensive Line
The loss of Rashawn Slater combined with Mekhi Becton’s uncertain availability leaves the Chargers’ offensive line in a vulnerable position going into the season. Protecting franchise quarterback Justin Herbert remains a top priority, making the return of Becton especially critical for maintaining both guard positions’ stability. The adjustment in starters underlines the pressing need for healthy, reliable players on the offensive front to give the Chargers the best chance for success as the NFL campaign approaches.