The Chargers are close to finalizing their 53-man roster after weeks of evaluation based on 17 practices, two joint practices and three preseason games.
When looking at the 80-man roster heading into the preseason finale against the Saints, there are 40 players who should be considered locks to make the 53-man team next week.
Here are the players I view as being guaranteed a roster spot this year.
Quarterback
Justin Herbert
Easton Stick
Chase Daniel
Whether the Chargers were going to carry two or three quarterbacks was a storyline heading into the summer. However, general manager Tom Telesco confirmed on the national broadcast during the preseason game against the Cowboys that the team is going to roll with all three. As for who will be Herbert’s backup, Stick is making a strong case for it.
Running back
Austin Ekeler
Joshua Kelley
Isaiah Spiller
Keeping three running backs seemed like the more reasonable route. But Spiller’s injury might keep him out of the season opener, indicating that the Chargers will roll with four. Larry Rountree has the upper hand based on experience and special teams upside, but undrafted free agents Leddie Brown or Kevin Marks Jr. might make their final case in the preseason finale on Friday.
Wide receiver
Keenan Allen
Mike Williams
Josh Palmer
Deandre Carter
Jalen Guyton
If the Chargers were only to keep three running backs, it would likely open up a spot. That would allow them to roster six wide receivers, and the final spot would then go to the summer standout, Michael Bandy.
Tight end
Gerald Everett
Donald Parham
Tre’ McKitty
The Chargers may elect to keep four tight ends since Parham is banged up with a hamstring injury and for the sake of another special teams piece.
Offensive line
Rashawn Slater
Matt Feiler
Corey Linsley
Zion Johnson
Trey Pipkins
Storm Norton
Jamaree Salyer
All signs are pointing to Pipkins being the starting right tackle. Norton will stay on the roster as the swing tackle. Salyer will be the backup guard. Brenden Jaimes has not played that well to be guaranteed a spot. Will Clapp, who was signed to be Linsley’s backup, has not proved himself against the second and third teams. Ryan Hunter could win that spot, or the Chargers ultimately dive into the waiver wire.
Interior…
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