The Los Angeles Chargers have finalized their 53-man roster for the 2026 season, making several significant moves before the deadline.
On August 30, the team executed two trades, sending cornerback Avery Smith to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for a sixth-round pick in the 2027 draft. Additionally, defensive lineman TeRah Edwards was traded to the Carolina Panthers for a sixth-round pick in the 2028 draft. These trades are pending physicals before becoming official.
Safety Tony Jefferson, who has nearly 11 years of NFL experience and has spent the last two seasons with the Chargers, was initially thought to be at risk of being cut. However, following the trade of Smith, Jefferson is now expected to remain with the team.
In roster cuts, starting punter J.K. Scott was released after a disappointing preseason, which included a notably poor performance in the final game against the Rams. Scott averaged only 33.7 yards on three punts and faced criticism for his lack of physicality during plays.
Running back Gregory Desrosiers had a strong showing in the preseason finale, rushing for 118 yards and a touchdown, but was still waived along with other players, including Jaret Patterson and Amar Johnson.
Quarterback Trey Lance secured his position over DJ Uiagalelei, who was waived but may return to the practice squad if he clears waivers. Linebacker Marlowe Wax made the roster, surpassing Junior Colson, a third-round pick from the University of Michigan.
