Chargers Place OL Trey Pipkins On IR

Pipkins is dealing with a knee injury, and today’s move ensures he will be absent for at least the next four games. The eighth-year veteran represents the latest injury along the interior of Los Angeles’ offensive line. Center Tyler Biadasz is out for the year, and his injury led to shuffling up front on the part of the Chargers.

Second-round rookie Jake Slaughter has handled starting duties at center through the first two weeks of the season, and that can be expected to continue. The left guard spot was wide open deep into training camp, though, with five candidates in place for a first-team gig at one point. Pipkins (who has seen considerable time at tackle among his 98 career appearances) was among them, although Kayode Awosika ultimately won out.

Awosika is dealing with an injury of his own at the moment. As a result, Trevor Penning may wind up starting at left guard for Week 3 and at least a short stretch beyond tomorrow’s game. The Bolts have started 0-2, and a difficult period on the schedule awaits. Improved play up front would certainly help the cause, but Pipkins will not be able to contribute on that front for the time being.

In a corresponding move, the Chargers have signed quarterback DJ Uiagalelei from the practice squad to their active roster. He could dress as the team’s emergency QB, although Trey Lance currently has a groin injury. That could result in Uiagalelei handling backup duties tomorrow.

Los Angeles also announced that tight end Patrick Herbert – the brother of quarterback Justin Herbert – has been designated a gameday elevation for tomorrow’s game against the Bills. Outside linebacker Caleb Murphy has been elevated from the taxi squad as well.