The Chargers have another month before they trim their roster down to 53 players for the start of the regular season.
Until then, they still have three preseason games and a few more weeks of training camp to prove to the coaching staff they're worthy of a spot.
With the first week of practice behind us, I'm giving my latest projection of the 53-man roster. Keep in mind that it's difficult to make an accurate assessment because the pads weren't on in Week 1.
For now, here’s who I see making the squad next month.
Justin Herbert, Trey Lance
Herbert remains the undisputed starter. Lance has solidified his role as the reliable backup. The team will likely trim to two for the 53-man roster, designating DJ Uiagalelei as the emergency QB if needed.
Omarion Hampton, Kimani Vidal, Keaton Mitchell
Hampton is a clear lock as the lead back after a promising start to his career. Vidal showed flashes as a complementary piece. Mitchell adds speed and explosiveness. It's unlikely they carry four backs.
Signed this offseason, Ingold provides blocking, familiarity and versatility in Mike McDaniel’s scheme.
Ladd McConkey, Tre Harris, Quentin Johnston, Brenen Thompson, Derius Davis, KeAndre Lambert-Smith
After the first week, Davis is still the primary returner, so he's safe in this scenario. There hasn't been much news about Lambert-Smith, but he still brings depth to the position room.
Oronde Gadsden II, Charlie Kolar, David Njoku
Gadsden provides downfield playmaking, complemented by Njoku’s veteran presence and receiving chops and Kolar’s elite run-blocking prowess.
Rashawn Slater, Kayode Awosika, Tyler Biadasz, Cole Strange, Joe Alt, Trey Pipkins, Travis Burke, Jake Slaughter, Trevor Penning, Branson Taylor
Of the ten offensive linemen, six are new members of the Chargers. Four starting spots appear to be set in stone, with left guard being the spot up in the air. Awosika, Slaughter, Penning, and Pipkins are competing for the starting job. Taylor edges out Logan Taylor in this scenario, given the reps with the first team at left guard.
Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu, Akheem Mesidor, Nadame Tucker
Mack and Tuipulotu are the starters, while Mesidor, the first-round pick, adds immediate punch and inside/out versatility. Tucker's familiarity with defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary and pass rush juice are enough to earn him a spot on the roster. Bud Dupree and Kyle Kennard are on the outside looking in.
Teair Tart, Dalvin Tomlinson, Jamaree Caldwell, Justin Eboigbe, Nick Barrett
Anchored by Tart and Caldwell, the Chargers boast a stout, run-stopping interior. Veteran Dalvin Tomlinson was added this past offseason. Barrett also brings upside against the run. Eboigbe is coming off a six-sack season and offers value as a pass rusher.
Daiyan Henley, Denzel Perryman, Troy Dye, Del'Shawn Phillips, Marlowe Wax
Henley leads the group. Perryman provides experience and run-stopping ability. Dye, Phillips and Wax excel on special teams. Junior Colson, who has struggled to get on the field, will make a strong push this summer. But in this projection, he is the odd man out.
Cam Hart, Tarheeb Still, Donte Jackson, Deane Leonard, Nikko Reed
Hart, Still and Jackson will be the starters, while Leonard and Reed will serve as depth and special teamers.
Derwin James, Elijah Molden, Tony Jefferson, R.J. Mickens, Genesis Smith, Kendall Williamson