Jim Harbaugh just told reporters that most of the Chargers’ starters are getting real game time against the Rams in the preseason finale. This is no ordinary preseason game, folks. With the 20th and final training camp practice wrapped up on Tuesday, it’s a full-on final audition for a ton of young players. That means Justin Herbert, the entire starting offensive line, and all their skill position guys are out there, with only Derwin James and Khalil Mack sitting this one out. You know the effort in SoFi Stadium is going to be through the roof from guys fighting for their NFL lives.
Edge Rushers: Show Something Or Go Home
Let’s talk about the edge rushers, Nadame Tucker and Kyle Kennard. Tucker had a hot start to camp, for sure, but the rookie hype has absolutely cooled off the last couple of weeks. His outing against the 49ers was flat-out poor, capped by a face mask penalty that straight-up erased what should have been a tackle for loss. You can’t make those mistakes when you’re fighting for a spot! Both Tucker and Kennard were given every chance to prove they deserved that fourth edge rusher spot over Bud Dupree. The dream scenario was saving some cap space, but honestly, neither guy has shown enough promise. They need to show *something* against the Rams, or I’m telling you, I fear neither makes the final roster. The Chargers could easily scoop up a veteran cut from another team, a move not unlike how Caleb Murphy was a preseason darling a season ago.
Barrett’s Draft Status Might Save Him
Then there’s fifth-round draft pick defensive tackle Nick Barrett. You’d think a draft pick has an inside track, especially in a crowded interior D-line room filled with first and second-year players. But honestly, guys like Jahmeer Carter and TeRah Edwards have flashed just as much, maybe even more, than Barrett through the first two preseason games. If final cuts were today, I don’t think Barrett has truly outplayed Edwards. But here’s the kicker: his status as a draft pick probably gives him that extra push over the edge as the team’s fifth and final defensive tackle. He needs to cement that feeling.
O-Line Shuffle Creates Opportunity For Pipkins
On the offensive line, things got interesting fast when Jake Slaughter moved back to full-time center after Tyler Biadasz’s injury. That immediately thrust Trey Pipkins into the left guard competition with Kayode Awosika. The goal is to get Pipkins up to speed with the regular season looming large. Awosika looks like the starter to begin the year, no doubt, but Pipkins absolutely needs to be ready if more is asked of him. This game against the Rams is his shot to prove he’s more than just depth. This is it for these guys, one last chance to make a statement before the regular season kicks off. Every snap matters Thursday night!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bolts from the Blue.
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