Rashawn Slater to Miss 2025 Season Due to Injury
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers announced that star left tackle Rashawn Slater will be sidelined for the entire 2025 season following a torn patellar tendon he suffered during practice.
Rashawn Slater sustained a torn patellar tendon in today’s practice and will undergo surgery to repair the injury. He will miss the 2025 season and be placed on Injured Reserve.
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) August 7, 2025
Slater, who secured the title of highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history with a four-year, $114 million contract extension on July 27, was engaged in a team drill when the injury occurred. This session involved just three offensive and two defensive linemen.
Quarterback Justin Herbert was in position to take the snap while Slater set up for pass protection. After absorbing a bull rush from defensive end Tuli Tuipulotu, Slater’s left leg buckled, causing him to fall back and clutch his knee. Medical staff quickly attended to him as teammates offered support.
After being carted off the field, Slater showed his frustration by throwing his helmet. Observers noted a somber atmosphere as he was assisted off the cart by trainers, unable to bear weight on his injured leg.
In light of the injury, Joe Alt transitioned to left tackle for the remainder of practice, with Trey Pipkins III stepping in on the right side. This shift will likely define the Chargers’ offensive line arrangement for the upcoming season.
Despite the setback, Alt possesses significant experience at left tackle, having started 33 games at Notre Dame and impressively filling in for Slater last season. With both Alt and Pipkins prepared for their new roles, the team is now adapting to substantial changes in their line-up, which had been considered one of their key strengths.
