NFL - The Athletic on Rashawn Slater

ArticleWho is most important to the Chargers' success in 2026? Counting down the top 10Captured July 6, 2026

From the article

Slater's 2025 season was the stuff of nightmares. He signed a $114 million contract in late July. Less than two weeks later, he tore his patellar tendon in practice, ending his season.

STACKED’s take

Negative signalInjury

Slater recovering from patellar tendon tear; expected ready for Week 1.

Slater's 2025 season was derailed by a patellar tendon tear suffered in practice less than two weeks after signing a $114 million contract in late July. He has since worked his way back and participated in spring practices, moving well and on track to participate in training camp and be ready for Week 1 as the Chargers' starting left tackle protecting Herbert's blindside. The Chargers lost both star tackles in 2025 (Slater before the season, Joe Alt for six games), resulting in Herbert being hit more than any quarterback in football.