EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Chargers wrapped up their final practice on Tuesday before heading to Canton, Ohio, for the Hall of Fame Game. However, it was a challenging session for the offense, marred by multiple dropped passes from the receivers.
During the unpadded practice, the Chargers’ pass catchers recorded six drops. Tight end Tyler Conklin contributed two drops, while rookie receiver KeAndre Lambert-Smith dropped a pass from quarterback Trey Lance, which was intercepted by rookie cornerback Trikweze Bridges. Tight end Will Dissly also dropped a crucial third-down pass, and tight end Oronde Gadsden II could not reel in a low throw from quarterback Taylor Heinicke. The session culminated with rookie receiver Dalevon Campbell dropping a pass in the end zone on a critical third-and-long play.
Additionally, receiver Quentin Johnston experienced a communication breakdown on a routing play, resulting in an incomplete pass from quarterback Justin Herbert. Johnston was also on the receiving end of a high throw earlier, and a dropped snap from center Bradley Bozeman added to the day’s woes.
Coach Jim Harbaugh announced that many starters, including Herbert, Johnston, and defensive stalwarts like Khalil Mack and Derwin James Jr., would not play in the Hall of Fame Game against the Detroit Lions on Thursday. This decision allows for newer talents, especially rookies like DJ Uiagalelei, who will follow Lance, to gain essential game experience.
Harbaugh expressed a desire for Lance to gain more game exposure due to limited playtime in his career, emphasizing the importance of these opportunities for player development. He mentioned that Lance is expected to play the first half and part of the third quarter, establishing a clear progression plan for the team’s younger players.
On a lighter note, the team saw some positive developments, including left tackle Rashawn Slater returning to team drills after a brief absence due to a foot blister. Safety Elijah Molden participated in team drills for the first time this camp after recovering from offseason surgery, which bodes well for the Chargers’ secondary depth.
Despite a rough practice day, there’s an opportunity for the team to regroup, learn from the mistakes, and showcase their skills in the upcoming game, with many rookies poised to make their mark. The Chargers will return to practice at The Bolt on Saturday to continue refining their tactics as they head into the preseason.