The Chargers’ offensive line is a patchwork ahead of Sunday’s game with Washington, with Joe Alt out with a high ankle sprain, Rashawn Slater sidelined for the season, and Mekhi Becton questionable after a concussion. Deculus slides in, and a revolving door at guard tests the unit’s cohesion as Herbert faces more pressure than most in recent weeks.

Coaches Harbaugh and Roman must balance protection with play-calling, possibly keeping a back or extra tight end in to shield Herbert without erasing the offense’s options. Despite the shakiness, Herbert remains confident in the young blockers, and the Chargers’ depth will be tested in the coming weeks as they navigate a tougher slate.

At 3-1 and atop the division, Los Angeles is still dangerous, but turbulence is coming. The Rams’ midseason reshuffles offer a blueprint, and how the Chargers respond—through scheme, communication, and depth—will shape the rest of the year.

Week 5's Washington–Los Angeles showdown at SoFi tests depth and playmaking in fantasy terms, with both sides dealing with injuries and big-question matchups. Washington must navigate a banged-up offense and aging star Bobby Wagner while Jayden Daniels returns with a brace. Los Angeles counters with Derwin James’s versatility and a banged offensive line that Washington can target, while Ladd McConkey and Keenan Allen loom as top targets. Five marquee battles will largely shape the fantasy upside of this clash.

Expect a high-variance game where rescuers emerge from the depth charts. Washington’s receivers could be limited if Terry McLaurin sits, pushing Jaylin Lane and Luke McCaffrey into larger roles, while the Chargers lean on Herbert’s arm and McConkey’s reliability against a mid-tier Commanders secondary. The Week 5 outcomes hinge on how these five matchups resolve in real time.

Foster Sarell earns a quick roster promotion as Los Angeles leans on internal options along the offensive line, with Bobby Hart added to the practice squad for veteran depth. Rashawn Slater’s season-ending absence tightens the tackle spots, likely pushing Austin Deculus into left tackle and Trey Pipkins into a starting role. Joe Alt’s status remains in question, while Mekhi Becton slowly returns from concussion—keeping Justin Herbert’s protection in flux for Week 5.

The Chargers are prioritizing continuity over splash signings, crafting a depth chart that could shift week to week. With Alt potentially headed for IR and internal names stepping up, fantasy expectations hinge on who lines up at tackle and how the run game and pass protection adapt against Washington.

Omarion Hampton exploded for 128 yards on 12 carries, including a 54-yard TD, signaling a revived Chargers ground game behind strong blocking. Los Angeles leaned on the run in a 21-18 loss to the Giants, balancing Herbert’s air attack and opening more play action chances.

With Najee Harris out, Hampton’s workload could grow as he sits at 270 yards and two TDs. Coaches and teammates praised his rhythm and speed, hinting at bigger responsibilities, which could lift fantasy value for Chargers playmakers in the coming weeks.