Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season

The Los Angeles Chargers’ roster finalization process is a months-long journey that blends strategy, talent evaluation, and adaptability—all aimed at building a 53-man squad capable of competing for a playoff spot. From the first day of OTAs (Organized Team Activities) in May to the NFL’s mandatory roster cutdown deadline in early September, the Chargers’ front office, led by general manager Tom Telesco, and coaching staff work in tandem to assess players, resolve position battles, and make tough choices that balance short-term success with long-term team building. Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season breaks down the critical steps of this process, from preseason standout performances to the strategic use of the practice squad, and how each decision shapes the team’s identity for the season.

Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season starts with the preseason evaluation phase—a four-game stretch where fringe players and rookies fight for roster spots. Preseason games are the ultimate test for undrafted free agents and late-round picks, who get extended playing time to prove they belong in the NFL. This season, undrafted rookie running back Elijah Dotson emerged as a standout: in the Chargers’ third preseason game against the New Orleans Saints, Dotson rushed for 89 yards on 14 carries, including a 22-yard touchdown, and added 35 receiving yards. His performance caught the attention of head coach Brandon Staley, who praised Dotson’s “toughness and versatility” in post-game press conferences. Dotson wasn’t the only preseason star: undrafted defensive back Ja’Sir Taylor recorded two interceptions and five pass breakups across four games, showing a knack for reading quarterbacks and making plays. These performances forced the Chargers’ staff to rethink their initial roster plans, as they realized both players could contribute to the team’s depth. “Preseason is where hidden gems are found,” Telesco said. “We go into it with a plan, but we’re always ready to adjust when a player proves they deserve a spot.”

Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season focuses on position battles—high-stakes competitions where players vie for starting roles or backup spots at key positions. One of the most intense battles this season was at left guard, where second-year player Zion Johnson faced off against veteran Matt Feiler. Johnson, a 2022 second-round pick, showed improvement in pass protection during OTAs, but Feiler—who started 15 games for the Chargers in 2022—had the edge in run-blocking experience. The battle came down to the final preseason game: Johnson allowed zero sacks and helped pave the way for Dotson’s touchdown run, while Feiler struggled with a costly holding penalty that negated a long gain. After the game, the staff made their decision: Johnson would start at left guard, and Feiler would serve as a versatile backup who could play both guard and tackle. Another tight race was at kick returner, where rookie Derius Davis beat out veteran Andre Roberts with his speed (he recorded a 45-yard kickoff return in preseason) and ability to contribute on special teams coverage. These battles aren’t just about talent—they’re about fit: the Chargers prioritize players who can adapt to multiple roles and thrive in Staley’s system. “A position battle isn’t about picking a winner,” Staley said. “It’s about finding the player who best helps the team win on Sundays.”

Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season delves into veteran signings and mid-camp additions—strategic moves the Los Angeles Chargers make to address roster gaps uncovered during OTAs or preseason. In late August, after starting tight end Gerald Everett suffered a minor knee injury in practice, the Chargers signed veteran tight end Jared Cook, a 14-year NFL veteran with 507 career receptions. Cook, who had previously played for the Raiders and Saints, was brought in to provide depth and leadership, and he quickly integrated into the offense by learning the playbook in just two weeks. The Chargers also added veteran defensive end Bud Dupree in early September, after a preseason injury to backup end Chris Rumph II left the position thin. Dupree, a Pro Bowl selection in 2020, brought playoff experience and a proven track record of sacks, which complemented star pass-rusher Khalil Mack. These signings weren’t last-minute panics—they were part of the Chargers’ contingency planning. “We always keep a list of veteran free agents who fit our system,” Telesco said. “When an injury or a gap emerges, we’re ready to act fast. For the Los Angeles Chargers, depth is just as important as our starting lineup—you never know when a backup will have to step up and win a game.”

Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season explores the roster cutdown process—one of the most difficult stages, where the Chargers must trim their 90-man preseason roster to 53 players by the NFL’s deadline. This season, the staff faced tough choices, including releasing several players who had contributed in previous years. One notable cut was backup quarterback Chase Daniel, a 14-year veteran who had served as Justin Herbert’s mentor since 2022. The decision to release Daniel was based on the Chargers’ desire to keep third-string quarterback Easton Stick, a younger player with more upside who had impressed in preseason (he threw for 312 yards and two touchdowns in the final game). The staff also cut ties with veteran wide receiver Josh Palmer, who had struggled with drops in preseason, choosing instead to keep rookie sixth-round pick Quentin Johnston, whose size (6’4”) and speed offered a different dynamic in the passing game. These cuts aren’t made lightly: Telesco and Staley meet with each player individually to explain the decision and, in many cases, express interest in signing them to the practice squad. “Telling a player they’re being cut is the hardest part of this job,” Telesco said. “We try to be honest and respectful, and we let them know we value their contributions.” For the Los Angeles Chargers, the cutdown process is about prioritizing talent, fit, and future potential over past performance.

Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season concludes with the formation of the practice squad and last-minute adjustments—final steps that complete the Chargers’ roster puzzle. The NFL allows teams to sign 16 players to their practice squad, most of whom are players they cut during the 53-man roster deadline. This season, the Chargers signed 10 players they had released, including Daniel and Palmer, as well as undrafted rookies who showed promise but needed more development. Practice squad players can be elevated to the active roster on game days (up to three times per player) to fill in for injuries, which makes them critical to the team’s depth. The Chargers also made a last-minute trade on the eve of the regular season, sending a 2024 seventh-round pick to the Cleveland Browns for backup cornerback Greg Newsome II, who added depth to a secondary dealing with a minor injury to starter Asante Samuel Jr. These final moves ensure the Chargers are prepared for opening day and beyond. “Roster finalization isn’t a one-time event—it’s a continuous process,” Staley said. “Even after the deadline, we’re always looking for ways to improve the team. For the Los Angeles Chargers, the goal is simple: put the best possible squad on the field every Sunday.” In the end, Roster Finalizations for the Los Angeles Chargers Season is a story of strategy and sacrifice—of building a team that’s not just talented, but resilient, deep, and ready to compete when the season kicks off.