The Los Angeles Chargers suffered a crushing blow Thursday as star left tackle Rashawn Slater was ruled out for the entire 2025 NFL season with a ruptured patellar tendon. The injury occurred during practice when Slater collapsed mid-play and clutched his left leg in clear distress. Teammates and coaches rushed to his side, and the scene turned somber as he was carted off, visibly emotional.
The injury is a major setback just 11 days after Slater signed a historic four-year, $113 million extension, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history. Known for his consistency and dominance, Slater was considered one half of the league’s best tackle duo alongside Joe Alt.
With Slater sidelined, the Chargers are expected to shift Alt to left tackle and move Trey Pipkins to the right side. Free-agent addition Mekhi Becton is also nursing a minor injury, further straining the depth of a line critical to Coach Jim Harbaugh’s ground-and-pound philosophy.
The news cast a shadow over what was meant to be a celebratory day, with veteran wideout Keenan Allen rejoining the team. Now, the Chargers must regroup and adapt, hoping their offensive line can hold strong in Slater’s absence.
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