Herbert will lead the Chargers’ offense in a preseason clash with the Rams, aiming to test live rush and build timing with a revamped receiving corps that includes Tre’ Harris, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Keenan Allen. Allen will still log limited snaps as he ramps up, giving Herbert a sense of comfort against a real pass rush before Week 1 in Brazil. The plan to play the starters despite injuries signals urgency over caution.

With Derwin James and Khalil Mack sidelined, Daiyan Henley steps into a leadership spotlight after a breakout season, while Joe Alt shifts back to left tackle to anchor a reimagined OL. Oronde Gadsden II has impressed with route-running polish and could push for more snaps as the Chargers explore a TE committee behind Will Dissly and Tyler Conklin. The Rams test should illuminate depth and chemistry from top to bottom as LA readies for the regular season.

The Los Angeles Chargers are navigating a significant setback this season with the loss of star left tackle Rashawn Slater, who suffered a torn patellar tendon during practice. Coach Jim Harbaugh expressed that it's a 'gut punch' for the team. To mitigate this loss, the Chargers have decided to shift Joe Alt, the fifth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, to left tackle, while Trey Pipkins will take over at right tackle. Both players bring strong credentials to their new roles; Alt is a former All-American and Pipkins has versatility from his previous season, where he started 15 games at right guard.

Despite Alt's inexperience at the NFL level, his collegiate performance at Notre Dame suggests he has the potential to excel in his new position. Harbaugh confirmed that the starting lineup will consist of Alt, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, projected starter Mekhi Becton, and Pipkins. While this lineup is not finalized, it demonstrates the Chargers' adaptability in facing adversity and maintaining a competitive edge in the league.

Joe Alt has quickly established himself as one of the NFL's premier young tackles, excelling in his rookie season with a top-25 PFF grade among offensive tackles. Leading all rookie tackles with a PFF grade of 75.9, Alt's versatility shines as he is capable of filling in at left tackle, demonstrated by his impressive performance against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Christian Mahogany, a sixth-round draft pick, has emerged as a potential steal, showcasing immense talent in limited opportunities with the Detroit Lions. With an elite PFF grade of 91.5 in his appearances, Mahogany's adaptability at both guard positions adds depth to the Lions' offensive line. Teams like the Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Saints, and Atlanta Falcons are highlighted for their exceptional young linemen, poised to elevate their respective offenses in the upcoming season.

The Philadelphia Eagles boast one of the NFL's premier offensive tackle duos, featuring Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, who are both ranked among the top five ahead of the 2025 season. Mailata had a standout year in 2024, showcasing strength in both pass and run blocking, achieving over 90.0 grades in both categories, a feat only he and Johnson matched. Johnson, the highest-rated right tackle, also excelled, allowing no sacks and only 2.2% pressure.

Rookie Joe Alt has quickly risen to a top-16 position within the league, exhibiting impressive skills in his inaugural season. Tackles from other teams, such as Tristan Wirfs of the Buccaneers, also made significant impacts, but the Eagles' line remains a critical factor in their Super Bowl aspirations.

The Los Angeles Chargers have humorously engaged in a trending social media debate: could 100 grown men defeat a gorilla? In a lighthearted twist, the team has named its top five candidates for this hypothetical battle. The list includes offensive linemen Joe Alt and Mekhi Becton, linebacker Daiyan Henley, edge rusher Khalil Mack, and surprisingly, safety Derwin James. While the first four selections are logical due to their size and strength, James’s selection raises eyebrows as he is significantly smaller in stature compared to his teammates.

This peculiar competition echoes past viral trends that mingled sports and social media, capturing the attention of fans and athletes alike. Whether a gorilla could be subdued by sheer numbers remains debatable, but the Chargers have taken the conversation to a fun level, showcasing camaraderie and playful banter among players.