Chargers Lose Star Left Tackle Rashawn Slater for Entire 2025 Season
It was a gut-punch moment for the Los Angeles Chargers on Thursday afternoon in El Segundo. During what seemed like a routine practice, star left tackle Rashawn Slater went down in pass protection, falling backward in a way that instantly raised concern. Trainers rushed over, and before long, he was being carted off the field. By the evening, the news everyone feared was confirmed: Slater had torn his patellar tendon and would require season-ending surgery.
The timing and severity of the injury could not have been worse. Slater, a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most reliable protectors of quarterback Justin Herbert’s blindside, will be placed on injured reserve. The Chargers now face a major decision—how to reconfigure their offensive line to survive the season without their anchor at left tackle. Backup Trey Pipkins could step in, but coaches may also consider shifting current starters. Right guard Mekhi Becton, who once played left tackle for the Jets but has thrived inside more recently, could be moved over. Another option is sliding 2024 first-round pick Joe Alt from right tackle to the left side.
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The loss is more than just a roster shuffle—it’s a major strategic blow. Protecting Herbert has always been a priority for this offense, and Slater’s combination of power, technique, and leadership is not easily replaced. Head coach Jim Harbaugh now has to adjust both the lineup and the play-calling to keep the offense stable as the team still aims for a playoff push.
For Slater, this is another heartbreaking setback. Drafted in the first round in 2021, he immediately made an impact, earning a Pro Bowl nod as a rookie. But in 2022, his season was cut short after only three games due to a biceps injury. He came back strong, reclaiming Pro Bowl status in 2024, only to see his 2025 season end before it began. The silver lining—if there is one—is that he recently secured a lucrative contract extension, providing some financial stability while he focuses on recovery.
As for the Chargers, Thursday’s news was a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can shift in the NFL. One moment you have your cornerstone left tackle, the next you’re scrambling to rebuild your protection plan. For now, all eyes will be on how Los Angeles reshapes its offensive line—and whether they can still keep Herbert upright long enough to make their postseason dreams a reality.
This wasn’t just a practice injury. It was the kind of moment that changes a team’s entire season before it even starts. And in the unforgiving world of the NFL, there’s no time to dwell—only to adapt and move forward.
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