Chargers begin training camp with key roster and coaching storylines ahead of 2026 season
Los Angeles Chargers start camp on July 29 as they address contract talks, position battles and a new offensive system under coordinator Mike McDaniel, while coach Jim Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz seek their first playoff win.
Los Angeles Chargers veterans will report to training camp at The Bolt in El Segundo, California, on Tuesday, with the first practice scheduled for Wednesday, July 29. The team enters the 2026 season under head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz, who are in their third year together after reaching the playoffs in each of the previous two seasons but not yet securing a postseason victory.
The Chargers have added offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel and made several roster moves in the draft and free agency, aiming to improve an offense that scored only three points in last season’s playoff loss to the New England Patriots. Among the offseason issues, edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu, who posted 13 sacks in 2025, is negotiating a contract extension and may use a “hold-in” strategy—reporting to camp but sitting out practices—to gain leverage.
A notable competition will unfold at left guard, where rookie Jake Slaughter, free-agent Kayode Awosika and veteran Trevor Penning vie for the starting role. Slaughter, a second-round pick, is considered a strong candidate, but the decision will be made after the first padded practice on Aug. 4 in San Diego.
In the secondary, new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary, succeeding Jesse Minter, will determine the third safety among veteran Tony Jefferson, 2025 sixth-round pick RJ Mickens and 2026 fourth-round pick Genesis Smith, who impressed during spring drills. Cornerback rotations also remain uncertain; O’Leary has not committed to a specific approach, and competition will involve returning players Donte Jackson, Tarheeb Still, Cam Hart and newcomers Nikko Reed and Eric Rogers.
McDaniel’s offensive philosophy emphasizes outside zone blocking in the run game and quicker ball distribution for quarterback Justin Herbert to exploit yards-after-catch opportunities. While spring minicamp offered limited reps, full-pad training camp will reveal how the offensive line adapts to the new scheme and whether the changes translate into improved performance.