The Los Angeles Chargers confirmed on Wednesday that rookie Jake Slaughter will start at center for Week 1 against the Arizona Cardinals. This decision follows the season-ending ACL injury sustained by Tyler Biadasz during a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers.
Although Slaughter had been expected to take over the role for several weeks, the official announcement coincides with the start of the regular season.
Slaughter entered the 2026 NFL Draft as a second-round selection, chosen with the 63rd overall pick. Initially, his role in training camp focused on competing for the left guard position, with the team evaluating him at various spots along the interior of the offensive line.
The injury to Biadasz shifted these plans, requiring Slaughter to assume the responsibilities of protecting quarterback Justin Herbert from the center position.
The transition leverages Slaughter’s extensive collegiate background at the University of Florida, where he played center throughout his career. He started 33 games and appeared in 51 contests during his time in the SEC. This experience made him a logical candidate to replace Biadasz, a player the Chargers had signed specifically to stabilize the position.
Entering the season, Slaughter faces the challenge of adapting to the speed and complexity of the NFL, which includes making protection calls and communicating with teammates before each snap. He will be supported by an experienced offensive line group. Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt return to the tackle positions, while Cole Strange is expected to start at right guard.
