Jim Harbaugh laments the season-ending injury to Rashawn Slater as a heavy blow, comparable to a powerful hit to the gut.
In a devastating blow to the Los Angeles Chargers, star offensive tackle Rashawn Slater has sustained a torn patellar tendon in his left knee during a practice session in early August 2025. The injury will end his 2025 NFL season before it even begins, and he is expected to undergo surgery shortly after the diagnosis.
Slater's recovery is anticipated to take approximately nine months, putting his return to the field potentially in the 2026 season or beyond. This timeline aligns with typical patellar tendon rupture recoveries, which often require 8 to 12 months for athletes to return to full competitive form.
The Chargers have placed Slater on injured reserve, and in his absence, Trey Pipkins III has moved into a potential starting role at right tackle. Pipkins, who is in the final year of his contract, is returning to a position he played for his first five seasons with the team.
Meanwhile, the Chargers are planning to explore the free-agent market and expect to bring in players for workouts as they search for reinforcements for their offensive line.
As for running back Najee Harris, his status remains unclear due to an injury sustained in a July 4 fireworks incident. Head coach Brandon Staley has been vague about when Harris might practice or play for the Chargers.
Despite Harris' agent expressing optimism that he will be ready for the Chargers' season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil, Staley only said, "There is a chance."
In a positive development, wide receiver Keenan Allen has agreed to a deal with the Chargers after being traded away. Allen's return to the team could provide a much-needed boost to the offense as they navigate the challenges posed by Slater's injury.
Assistant coach Anthony De Leon will continue to guide the Chargers' offensive line, with Joe Alt at left tackle, Zion Johnson at left guard, Bradley Bozeman at center, Mekhi Becton at right guard, and Jamaree Salyer potentially challenging for the starting role at right tackle.
[1] Source: Los Angeles Chargers official announcement [2] Source: Rashawn Slater's agent's statement [3] Source: NFL Network report [4] Source: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons guidelines for patellar tendon rupture recovery
The Los Angeles Chargers could bolster their offensive line by exploring free-agent options due to Rashawn Slater's anticipated nine-month absence following a torn patellar tendon. Trey Pipkins III may fill the vacancy left by Slater at right tackle. Keenan Allen's return to the team after a trade has the potential to offer a significant lift to the offense as they cope with Slater's injury and the uncertainty surrounding running back Najee Harris' recovery.
