By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
The Los Angeles Chargers entered their second week of training camp this week, with Tuesday marking the first padded practice of the 2026 season. As the intensity increased, several of the team’s eight draft picks from the 2026 NFL Draft continued to make strong impressions, while others now face the challenge of proving themselves in full-contact drills.
The first padded practice also signaled the beginning of a heated competition for the starting left guard position. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has opened the battle to five offensive linemen—Kayode Awosika, Jake Slaughter, Branson Taylor, Trevor Penning and Trey Pipkins III—and plans to let the competition play out over the coming weeks.
Practicing in pads is expected to quickly separate the contenders from the rest of the field as the Chargers evaluate who will earn the starting role before the regular season.
Left Guard Battle Takes Center Stage
The competition for the starting left guard spot has become one of the biggest storylines of training camp. All five candidates have rotated with the first-team offense, but early reports indicate that Kayode Awosika has emerged as one of the frontrunners for the job.
The offensive line remains a key focus for the Chargers as they work to provide quarterback Justin Herbert with improved protection heading into the season.
Rookies Making Early Statements
Among the newcomers, rookie wide receiver Brenen Thompson has been one of the early breakout performers. Thompson’s blazing 4.26-second speed has drawn praise from Herbert and the coaching staff, with his ability to stretch the field adding another dimension to the Chargers’ offense.
First-round edge rusher Akheem Mesidor has also impressed during the opening days of camp. General manager Joe Hortiz described the rookie as “polished” as he continues to earn valuable repetitions in the Chargers’ pass-rush rotation.
The Chargers did receive a brief scare when Pro Bowl offensive tackle Rashawn Slater appeared to suffer an injury during the first day of padded practice. Fortunately for Los Angeles, the injury was considered minor, and Slater was able to return to the field shortly afterward.
The Chargers also spent a couple of days practicing at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar before returning to their training facility in El Segundo to continue preparations for the upcoming preseason schedule.
With padded practices now underway, competition across the roster is expected to intensify as Harbaugh and his coaching staff continue evaluating players ahead of the 2026 season.