Rashawn Slater Leaves Chargers Practice with Injury
Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Rashawn Slater left Thursday’s practice on a medical cart due to an apparent left leg injury.
Slater was blocking outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu during a team practice when he collapsed. He immediately grabbed his left leg.
After a few minutes with the medical staff, and with the prayer of Derwin James Jr. and Denzel Perryman, Slater was helped up by the trainers and teammates, unable to put weight on his leg.
Visibly frustrated, Slater hit the cart and threw his helmet as he headed to the facilities.
This situation arises shortly after Slater signed a four-year, $114 million contract extension, with $92 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history.
Given that offensive linemen are crucial to the Chargers’ playing style, focused on dominant ground attacks, Slater’s possible absence could have a significant impact.
The team, which boasted one of the best tackle pairings with Slater and Joe Alt, the fifth draft pick from last year, also reinforced its line with the addition of Mekhi Becton.
If Slater misses significant playing time, Alt is likely to move to left tackle and Trey Pipkins to right tackle, a position he held in the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
The injury marred a day that had begun on a positive note at the Chargers’ facilities, with the return of wide receiver Keenan Allen to practice.
