Chargers begin padded practices at University of San Diego, focusing on line battles and run game

The Los Angeles Chargers held their first padded practices on Tuesday at the University of San Diego, marking the start of 11-on-11 drills after five non-padded sessions. Coaches used the contact phase to evaluate players on the offensive and defensive lines, with particular focus on the left guard position, where five candidates – Kayode Awosika, Jake Slaughter, Trevor Penning, Trey Pipkins III and Branson Taylor – have been rotating in team drills.

Rookie edge rusher Akheem Mesidor, who has received significant reps in the absence of contract-negotiating tackle Tuli Tuipulotu, will be closely watched in one-on-one pass-rush drills. He said he is “very excited” to match up against veteran tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt.

Both Slater and Alt are returning from season-ending injuries. Alt has not missed an offensive snap in camp, while Slater, recovering from a torn patellar tendon, has seen limited action. Their performance in padded drills will serve as a benchmark for their health and readiness.

Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel’s run concepts, which have emphasized lateral zone schemes and jet sweeps, will be tested against defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary’s run defense in the new contact environment. The drills aim to provide a clearer picture of the Chargers’ run blocking and defensive disruption capabilities.

Additional notes from the sessions include rookie cornerback Avery Smith’s break-up and interception in seven-on-seven drills, aggressive downfield attempts by quarterbacks Justin Herbert and Trey Lance, and several red-zone touchdowns for both the offense and the backup quarterback. Two players – tackle Laekin Vakalahi and receiver Mante’ Morrow – did not participate in Monday’s practice.