With training camp about a month away, it’s getting close to seeing the Chargers back in action. While training camp is the first look the public gets of the 2023 Chargers roster, it also could be the last look for some players in a Chargers uniform.
Some players get sent to the practice squad that later make it to the roster. However, there are always a few fan favorites that won’t quite crack the final team going into Week 1.
Some training camp cuts have come back to bite the bolts. Not too long ago, a former Charger ended up making crucial plays against the bolts. Most notably, former Chargers receiver Tyron Johnson.
Johnson was a big part of Justin Herbert’s success in his rookie season with the speed threat out wide and special teams impact. In his first season after being cut, he went on to the Raiders, where he recovered a fumble to end the Chargers season in 2021.
An under the radar cut before last season was at the fullback position. With the Chargers drafting a fullback in the seventh round, it wasn’t looking good for the former starter, Gabe Nabers. As an undrafted rookie he had two receiving touchdowns in 2020 which is rare at the fullback position in today’s game.
Most notably, Nabers was solid in the run game. Under former Chargers offensive coordinator Shane Steichen, they had a solid run game by implementing the fullback in blocking schemes. Zander Horvath’s rookie season was solid but is not as effective in the blocking game, which could’ve been an added reason why the Chargers struggled mightily in rushing last season.
Taking a look at the roster, some position groups are just about set, while there are some that are going to be tricky to choose.
This position group has to be the most obvious to general manager Tom Telesco to manage. There are currently three quarterbacks on the roster with the addition of seventh round pick Max Duggan.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see an undrafted rookie come into the mix, but more than likely the current three will make the team. The top reason being the new emergency QB rule allowing teams to roster a third quarterback without it counting as a game day roster spot.
The Chargers have a history of preseason standout running backs earning a roster spot, such as Austin Ekeler and Branden Oliver. There will be a camp battle to watch for running back two on the depth chart between Joshua Kelly and Isaiah Spiller.
Kelly has the upper hand as he proved himself last year, but Spiller is a mystery going into his second year and could shine when given an opportunity.
Running back three would likely be Larry Rountree III unless they pick up a free agent like Kareem Hunt.
With the addition of two rookies, this position group might have the most depth on the 2023 Chargers team. Telesco clearly learned his lesson from last season going from having no receiver depth to having plenty.
The four guaranteed players to make the game-day roster would have to be Keenan Allen, Mike Williams, Quentin Johnson, and Joshua Palmer. Depending on how many receivers the Chargers choose to keep, there might be some familiar faces leaving the team.
The last minute signing before OTAs to get Jalen Guyton was a great addition as he brings speed and experience. However, with speedy rookie Derius Davis, there will be an intense battle if only one can make the team. An undrafted rookie who has a great chance to make the practice squad and could earn time is Pokey Wilson. He has shined in OTAs and adds more depth to a position Chargers desperately needed last year.
The two starting tight ends are a lock, being that the Chargers re-signed Donald Parham and kept Gerald Everett.
The Chargers usually have three tight ends and with new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, there likely will be even more use for three tight ends. They will not need to use a tight end at fullback as they have in years past as they have Horvath.
The battle would be between Tre’ McKitty, Stone Smartt, and Hunter Kampmoyer. All three have something in their favor.
McKitty has earned the third tight end role the past few seasons, giving him the most experience. However, he has struggled mightily, making him the most likely to lose his role and possibly even get cut.
Smartt is one of Staley’s favorites. He has a strong work ethic, but does not have much experience.
Kampmoyer has been an interesting prospect for a while now. He was brought in with Herbert as he was his college tight end at Oregon. He hasn’t suited up for a game yet. If Kampmoyer has any chemistry still with Herbert, he could possibly make the roster.
The starting five is pretty much a lock as of now.
The two former first round picks Rashawn Slater and Zion Johnson will be every down starters. Corey Linsley will continue to be a top center in the entire NFL. Sixth round sensation Jamaree Salyer should continue to thrive in his second year. Veteran tackle Trey Pipkins should handle the right tackle position as well, as he is the most experienced tackle on the team.
Backup lineman can be difficult to predict, but it is likely recent 5th round pick Jordan McFadden will suit up for games and maybe earn playing time like Salyer.
The Bolts also re-signed Chargers legend Will Clapp and kept Foster Sarell who should round out the line depth.
The top camp battles on the offensive side of the ball will be at the running back and tight end positions. Training camp and preseason will be the deciders to see who will earn a spot on the 2023 Chargers roster.
While experience can be a great thing in sports, being older is not, which is why some players could steal some spots in the new and improved Chargers offense.
Stay tuned for more breaking NFL content, including midseason moves, contract updates and more news from every team.
Featured image courtesy of Chargers.com
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