Chargers cut DJ Uiagalelei sparking talk about his next NFL home

Chargers Move Leaves Uiagalelei Facing Uncertain Future

Uiagalelei entered the professional ranks with high expectations after a college career that included stops at Clemson, Oregon State, and Florida State. He first drew national attention as a true freshman at Clemson in 2020, stepping in when Trevor Lawrence missed time due to COVID-19.

In relief, Uiagalelei performed admirably, showing poise and arm strength, but he never fully developed into the star many thought he would become after those early flashes of talent.

After being drafted, Uiagalelei joined the Chargers preseason roster, competing for a backup role behind starter Justin Herbert. Despite showing flashes in practice and preseason action, he ultimately did not secure a spot on the team’s 53-man roster.

Now, Uiagalelei will go through the NFL waiver process. Experts predict he is unlikely to be claimed immediately and could find a home on a practice squad, where he can continue to develop and wait for an opportunity to step onto the field.

This is a critical moment for Uiagalelei, who has spent five years navigating college football’s top programs and now faces the challenge of proving himself at the professional level.

For a quarterback with early promise but an unconventional path, landing on a practice squad could be a chance to refine his skills, learn from veteran leaders, and eventually earn his shot as a starter. While the Chargers decision is a setback, it does not necessarily mark the end of Uiagalelei’s NFL ambitions.

Several teams around the league could look to bring Uiagalelei in as a developmental option. The Detroit Lions recently waived Hendon Hooker, leaving room for another young arm to fill out their depth chart or practice squad.

In Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers released Kyle Trask and Connor Bazelak, which creates an opening behind Baker Mayfield and Teddy Bridgewater. The Washington Commanders also moved on from Sam Hartman during final roster cuts, and with questions surrounding their quarterback depth, they could be another team willing to give Uiagalelei a chance to continue his development.