Los Angeles Chargers starting center Tyler Biadasz was carted off the field Tuesday with an apparent leg injury during a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers. The injury occurred during 11-on-11 drills when a 49ers defender fell on Biadasz, who was unable to put weight on his leg before being taken off the field.
The severity of Biadasz's injury was not immediately known. The timing is particularly concerning for the Chargers, as Biadasz was a significant offseason acquisition, signing a three-year, $30 million contract after two seasons with Washington. He was expected to be a key component in bolstering the protection for quarterback Justin Herbert, especially after the offensive line was plagued by injuries last season.
New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel had previously expressed confidence in Biadasz's abilities, noting his athleticism, ability to operate in space, and interior pass protection strength. "He’s a player that we think — specifically with the nuances and tools we give the center in both run and pass that are a little unique — we think his skillset really plays with what we like to do," McDaniel said earlier this offseason.
If Biadasz is sidelined for an extended period, rookie second-round pick Jake Slaughter is a likely candidate to step into the starting role. The Chargers are also managing left tackle Rashawn Slater's return from a knee injury flare-up; head coach Jim Harbaugh indicated Slater is expected back at practice this weekend. The team will be awaiting further information on Biadasz's condition as they continue to rebuild their offensive line.