Chargers Confirm Torn Patellar Tendon for LT Rashawn Slater

The Los Angeles Chargers have suffered a huge setback before the 2025 season even kicks off. Star left tackle Rashawn Slater tore his patellar tendon during Thursday’s practice and will miss the entire season. Slater was carted off the field, and hours later, the team confirmed the injury after testing.

The 28-year-old Pro Bowler will now head to injured reserve, dealing a major blow to the Chargers’ offensive line and their playoff hopes.

Bad Timing After Record Contract

Slater’s injury comes just weeks after signing a massive four-year, $114 million extension, with $56 million guaranteed at signing. His $28.5 million average annual value set a new standard for offensive linemen. Only Giants tackle Andrew Thomas secured more guaranteed money at signing among left tackles.

The Chargers rewarded Slater for locking down a position that saw instability for years before his arrival in 2021. Now, his effort to live up to that deal will have to wait until 2026.

Who Fills the Void?

Replacing Slater will be no easy task, but the Chargers have options. Rookie Joe Alt — the No. 5 overall pick in 2024 — played left tackle at Notre Dame but shifted to right tackle this offseason due to Slater’s presence. Moving Alt back to the blind side is a strong possibility, though it would mean reshuffling the line again.

Veteran Trey Pipkins could slide back into his old right tackle role if Alt moves to LT. Pipkins has 56 career starts, most at right tackle, but has rarely played left tackle since his rookie year. Another possibility is Jamaree Salyer, who stepped in for Slater in 2022 when the tackle missed most of the season with a torn biceps tendon. Salyer, however, has been playing guard since 2023.

Harbaugh’s Original Plan Now Scrapped

Earlier this week, head coach Jim Harbaugh announced the Chargers’ starting five as Slater, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, Mekhi Becton, and Alt. That lineup is now out the window. Pipkins or Salyer could join the group, with Alt possibly returning to his college position.

Pipkins, 29, signed a three-year, $21.75 million deal in 2023, but struggled when moved to guard last year. Pro Football Focus ranked him outside the top 60 at the position in 2024.

Slater’s Track Record

Before this setback, Slater had proven to be one of the NFL’s best tackles. PFF graded him as the league’s second-best tackle in 2024. He had rebounded from his 2022 biceps injury to play 32 games over the past two seasons, missing just one last year due to a pectoral issue.

With Slater out, the Chargers will now lean on their improved O-line depth, which includes Pipkins, Salyer, and new center Andre James.

What’s Next for the Bolts?

The Chargers have invested heavily in their offense this offseason, adding Najee Harris and drafting Omarion Hampton in the first round. But losing Slater means protecting quarterback Justin Herbert just became much more complicated.

The team is expected to announce its adjusted offensive line plan soon, with Alt, Pipkins, and Salyer all in the mix.