Chargers Depth Chart: 3 Surprises & 1 Burning Question
Los Angeles Chargers Preseason Depth Chart: What You Need to Know Before Week 2
The Los Angeles Chargers are getting ready to face the San Francisco 49ers in Week 2 of the NFL preseason on Thursday. Before the game, the team released an updated depth chart—basically a roster map showing who’s starting and who’s backing up at each position. Think of it like a seating chart for a classroom, but for football players.
Important Note: Depth charts are a little old-school these days, but teams still have to release them. The Chargers list their offense as "21 personnel" (that means 1 running back, 1 fullback, 1 tight end, and 2 wide receivers) and their defense as a 3-4 scheme (3 big linemen up front, 4 linebackers behind them).
Key Takeaways from the Latest Depth Chart
Here are the biggest storylines and questions heading into Thursday’s game:
1. The Backup Quarterback Mystery: Trey Lance vs. DJ Uiagalelei
- The Chargers are being super careful—they put an "and" between the backup QBs on the chart (like "Lance and Uiagalelei") so fans and media can’t guess who’s actually ahead.
- What happened in Week 1: Justin Herbert (the starter) didn’t play. Trey Lance struggled. DJ Uiagalelei came in, threw an easy touchdown, and ran the offense smoothly.
- Why it matters: New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is known for developing QBs. There are only two QB spots on the final roster. Uiagalelei has a real chance to steal the backup job.
- Bottom line: The team isn’t tipping their hand yet. We’ll learn more in the next two preseason games.
2. Running Back Battle: Mitchell vs. Vidal (Behind Hampton)
- Omarion Hampton is the undisputed #1 running back. No debate there.
- The backup spot lists: Keaton Mitchell OR Kimani Vidal.
- Mitchell: Signed in free agency. Clearly a Mike McDaniel guy—fast, explosive, fits the new offense.
- Vidal: Had a mini-breakout last year as a "three-down back" (can run, catch, block) when the team needed him.
- Amar Johnson has had a fantastic summer but isn’t in the top 3 yet. He could still climb the chart.
3. Jake Slaughter: Rookie OL Mystery
- The situation: Rookie Jake Slaughter looked like he won the starting Left Guard job in practice.
- The depth chart says: Starting LG is "Kayode Awosika OR Branson Taylor OR Jake Slaughter." Slaughter is listed as the first backup.
- Plot twist: Starting center Tyler Biadasz got seriously injured. Now Slaughter is starting at center—a position he’s also practiced.
- Other contenders:
- Awosika: Free agent signing, surprise early camp leader.
- Taylor: Was on the practice squad last year, has surged in camp.
- Thursday’s game should clarify who actually starts at Left Guard.
4. Tight End Logjam: Three Veterans, One Spot
The starting tight end spot lists: "Charlie Kolar OR Oronde Gadsden OR David Njoku."
| Player | Background | What to Know |
|---|---|---|
| Oronde Gadsden | 2nd-year player, looked like a rising star as a rookie | Many thought he’d be the clear starter |
| Charlie Kolar | Free agent signing, historically a blocker first | Chargers hope McDaniel can unlock his receiving |
| David Njoku | Veteran free agent, had down years in Cleveland | Hard to judge him fairly for Cleveland’s struggles; McDaniel could revive him |
- Why it’s tricky: All three are veterans (except Gadsden). The team wants to protect Gadsden’s development. Don’t expect Thursday’s game to solve this. It’s a "good problem to have"—but someone eventually has to win the job.
Summary: What to Watch Thursday
- QB Battle: How do Lance and Uiagalelei look with more reps?
- RB Rotation: Does Mitchell or Vidal separate as clear #2 behind Hampton?
- Offensive Line: Who starts at Left Guard? How does Slaughter look at Center?
- Tight End Usage: Which TE gets the most snaps with the first-team offense?
Remember: It’s preseason. Coaches are evaluating, not game-planning to win. Don’t overreact to any single play!
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: What does "21 personnel" mean in simple terms?
A: It’s just a code for the offense’s "starting lineup" on paper: 1 Running Back, 1 Fullback, 1 Tight End, 2 Wide Receivers (plus the QB and 5 linemen = 11 players). It tells you the team likes to run the ball and use multiple blockers.
Q: Why do teams use "OR" on depth charts instead of picking a starter?
A: It’s strategic! Coaches don’t want to reveal their true pecking order to opponents (or the media). It keeps competition open and prevents other teams from knowing exactly who to game-plan against.
Q: How many quarterbacks usually make the final 53-man roster?
A: Typically two (sometimes three if they stash one on the practice squad). Since Herbert is locked in as starter, Lance and Uiagalelei are fighting for one single spot.
Q: Why is Jake Slaughter playing Center now if he was competing at Guard?
A: Versatility is gold for offensive linemen. When starting center Tyler Biadasz got hurt, the coaches moved Slaughter—who practiced both spots—to center. It actually increases his value to the team.
Q: Should I be worried about the Tight End situation?
A: Not at all! Having three NFL-caliber tight ends is a luxury problem. The coaching staff has options. They’ll sort it out by Week 1 of the regular season.
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