Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Rashawn Slater described a recent discomfort in his surgically repaired left knee as a "little flare-up," urging fans not to view it as a major setback. Slater missed his fourth consecutive practice on Tuesday after the issue surfaced last week.
Slater experienced the discomfort after leaving the Chargers' first padded practice following the opening 11-on-11 period. While he returned for a lighter session the following day, he has not participated in full practice since being limited on Thursday. Slater stated that the situation is "nothing crazy" and "nothing that's concerning."
The 27-year-old offensive lineman tore his left patellar tendon during training camp last year, forcing him to miss the entire 2025 season. He had been cleared for full participation before the current training camp and had reported his knee felt stronger than in previous years before this recent interruption.
"Just being smart, being thoughtful," Slater said regarding his current approach. "Coming back from a major injury, I think the smartest thing is being cautious."
The Chargers were not planning to play Slater in their preseason opener against the Houston Texans on Thursday. The team's priority is to have him ready for the regular-season opener against the Arizona Cardinals on September 13.
Slater's absence from four consecutive practices without a defined return date has drawn attention. The Chargers revamped their offensive line following season-ending injuries to Slater and right tackle Joe Alt, which contributed to quarterback Justin Herbert being sacked a career-high 54 times in the previous season. Trey Pipkins and Branson Taylor have been receiving increased work at left tackle during Slater's absence.
While the Chargers can afford to be patient in August, Slater's availability becomes critical as September approaches. For now, he maintains that the flare-up is a typical part of the recovery process rather than another season-altering injury.