Los Angeles Chargers superstar offensive tackle Rashawn Slater suffered a non-contact injury during Thursday’s practice, and the early reports suggest he could be done for the season. A first-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Slater has consistently been one of the league’s most reliable tackles when on the field. While injuries limited him to just three games in 2022, he played in at least 15 contests in his other three seasons while playing like a top-five left tackle. Paired with fellow first-round pick Joe Alt, these two were supposed to anchor one of the game’s top units.
Unfortunately, that may not come to fruition in 2025. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, early tests indicate that Rashawn Slater has suffered a torn patellar injury. While the team is still waiting on an MRI to confirm this assessment, he could miss the entire season.
#Chargers star OT Rashawn Slater, who was carted off during practice, is feared to have suffered a torn patellar tendon, sources tell The Insiders.
He’ll have an MRI, but he’s facing a season-ending injury. pic.twitter.com/xYaluaNUYG
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 7, 2025
REPORT: Rashawn Slater Could Miss 2025 Season With Knee Injury
Once again, it’s important to note that the Rashawn Slater injury has yet to be confirmed by an MRI. However, if the early results are correct, then this is a devastating injury for a team with Super Bowl aspirations. Slater is one of the best in the game, and head coach Jim Harbaugh built this team around a hard-nosed, physical identity. Winning in the trenches will not be easy if Slater cannot suit up for the 2025 season, especially when they play in one of the game’s top divisions.
Assuming this injury sidelines Rashawn Slater for the season, the Chargers will likely put their faith in old friend Trey Pipkins. Currently relegated to a backup role, Pipkins is a jack of all trades, master of none with plenty of right tackle experience. Seeing as Joe Alt played left tackle in college, he could return to his native position as Pipkins slides in on the right side of the line.
Main Photo: Gary A. Vasquez – Imagn Images
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