Chargers and 49ers hold joint practice as injuries and roster updates emerge

The Chargers and 49ers met for a joint practice in El Segundo, California, where quarterback Justin Herbert led the Chargers against a 49ers defense that was missing running back Christian McCaffrey. Herbert was seen walking hand-in-hand with his fiancée Madison Beer before greeting the opposing team’s celebrity couple, Christian McCaffrey and Olivia Culpo.

49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan said McCaffrey is dealing with “tightness” but declined to give a timeline for his return. He rejected speculation that the injury was related to a contract dispute, stating, “They do make a lot of assumptions and that would be one that they’re wrong on.”

In McCaffrey’s absence, rookie running back Kaelon Black posted several long runs, while veteran Deebo Samuel added rushing attempts reminiscent of his 2021 season.

On the Chargers side, rookie running back Omarion Hampton displayed strong running and receiving ability, breaking tackles and making a notable sideline catch-and-run. New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel is expected to feature Hampton more prominently.

The Chargers also dealt with multiple injuries. Center Tyler Biadasz was carted off early in practice; wide receiver Quentin Johnston and edge rusher Kyle Kennard also sustained issues, though Johnston attempted to return. Biadasz, a recent three-year, $30 million signing, may force the team to rely on rookie second-round pick Jake Slaughter for interior line depth. Left tackle Rashawn Slater has missed half of training camp due to injury.

For the 49ers, veteran receiver Mike Evans participated briefly before leaving to ice a left-tackle injury, while rookie De’Zhaun Stribling recorded several red-zone touchdowns. The team’s receiving group now includes Evans, Samuel and Stribling despite a summer of injuries.