The Los Angeles Chargers concluded their preseason with a narrow 20-18 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday night. Following the game, head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz face the task of reducing their roster from 91 players to 53 by 3 p.m. PT on Sunday.
In the quarterback position, Justin Herbert and Trey Lance are expected to make the cut, while DJ Uiagalelei, despite a strong training camp, is likely to be left off the roster. Lance's mobility gives him an advantage as a backup option.
For running backs, Omarion Hampton, Keaton Mitchell, and Kimani Vidal are projected to secure spots, while Jaret Patterson, Amar Johnson, and Gregory Desrosiers are expected to be cut. Desrosiers had a standout performance on Thursday with 118 rushing yards on nine carries, which may earn him a practice squad position.
The receiving corps is anticipated to include Ladd McConkey, Quentin Johnston, Tre’ Harris, Brenen Thompson, KeAndre Lambert-Smith, and Derius Davis. Davis's ability as a return specialist is a key factor for his inclusion.
The tight ends and fullbacks group is likely to consist of Charlie Kolar, David Njoku, Oronde Gadsden, and Alec Ingold, with no significant surprises expected in this lineup.
On the offensive line, the projected roster includes Rashawn Slater, Kayode Awosika, Jake Slaughter, Cole Strange, Joe Alt, Trey Pipkins III, Branson Taylor, Travis Burke, and Jacob Spomer. Isaiah World is expected to be placed on the reserve/non-football injury list due to a knee injury.
