The Los Angeles Chargers looked outside the NFL to add competition to their roster just in time for their 2025 training camp

Chargers sign UFL OT Ryan Nelson 

The Chargers signed Ryan Nelson, who most recently played for the Michigan Panthers in the UFL. Nelson has spent the last three seasons in the UFL, all with the Panthers. This past year was arguably his best season. PFF certainly agrees with him, earning his highest grades as a run blocker, pass blocker, and overall offensive grade during his time in the UFL. 

Before the UFL, Nelson spent four years at the University of Virginia. He was a starter all four seasons and was a versatile player, spending time at tackle and guard. During his final year, he made three starts at left tackle and nine at left guard. He took that versatility into the UFL with him, where he has also played both positions. This past year, he was a full time tackle, though, and was able to play the best football of his career. 

Now Nelson has earned the chance to compete to make an NFL roster. He will compete for a spot on the Chargers 53 man roster. If the plan is for him to stick at tackle he will compete for. a spot against players like Trey Pipkins III, Branson Taylor, and Corey Stewart to be a depth tackle. If his versatility comes to play he would also be able to compete for a depth guard spot with players like Jamaree Salyer, Karsen Barnhart, and Nash Jones. Whether he will make the roster or not will be decided in training camp, but I think Nelson's run blocking is going to win over head coach Jim Harbaugh.