Los Angeles Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh provides latest injury updates ahead of preseason Week 1 tilt with Houston Texans
Los Angeles Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh spoke about injuries to starting LT Rashawn Slater, WR Quentin Johnston, and CB Tarheeb Still on Tuesday. This comes ahead of preseason Week 1 vs. the Houston Texans.
The Los Angeles Chargers are dealing with a number of injuries heading into their preseason Week 1 matchup against the Houston Texans.
Several players remain out of practice, including starting left tackle Rashawn Slater, starting wide receiver Quentin Johnston, and starting cornerback Tarheeb Still. Cornerback Rodney Shelley, defensive back Noah Avinger, and wide receiver Sincere Brown were also not participating in the latest training camp practice, according to ESPN’s Kris Rhim.
Rashawn Slater’s injury not related to patellar tendon
Speaking to reporters ahead of practice, Jim Harbaugh said that Rashaun Slater’s injury is not related to the patellar tendon. Slater left the practice field about six days ago under his own power with an injury and has not practiced since. Coach Harbaugh described the injury as a muscle injury.
It is relieving to learn that this injury is not related to the one that ended Slater’s 2025 NFL season. Still, the longer Slater misses time, the more concerning the situation becomes for fans. They need him healthy and protecting the blind side.
Both Still and Johnston are also working through “something minor”, according to Harbaugh. Hopefully, the pair will be healthy enough to return to action after the preseason Week 1 contest.
Chargers resting key offensive linemen for preseason opener
With a preseason test against the Houston Texans on the horizon, Harbaugh noted that in addition to Slater, four other offensive linemen would not play. That includes Joe Alt, Tyler Biadasz, Cole Strange, and Trey Pipkins, per Chargers team reporter Eric Smith. Los Angeles appears to be doing a lot to protect both starters and depth pieces they believe will be among the most important players for the upcoming season.
There are a number of other players who won’t suit up for the Chargers’ preseason opener, including quarterback Justin Herbert. The preseason game will feature a split performance between quarterbacks Trey Lance and DJ Uiagalelei, with each player getting roughly one half of playing time.
