Los Angeles Chargers Provide Encouraging Update On Big Contract Talks

The Los Angeles Chargers are currently engaged in extension talks with left tackle Rashawn Slater, according to ESPN’s Kris Rhim , with general manager Joe Hortiz expressing optimism about reaching an agreement. Slater, the 13th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, is entering the final year of his rookie contract, playing under a fifth-year option worth $19MM. Since entering the league, he has established himself as one of the premier blindside protectors in the NFL, earning Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro honors as a rookie.

His consistency in pass protection is notable; he has only had two games in his career with more than four pressures allowed, according to Pro Football Focus. Los Angeles Chargers Still Continue Conversations With Rashawn Slater While Slater is also an excellent run-blocker, the Chargers’ team rushing performance has not been particularly strong during his tenure. A torn biceps tendon sidelined him after just three games in his second season, but he has started 48 of the Chargers’ 51 regular-season games in his other three years in Los Angeles.



Slater’s potential extension could position him as the highest-paid left tackle in the league. The left tackle market has seen significant increases, with Christian Darrisaw setting the bar at $26MM per year last July, and Trent Williams surpassing that with a $27.55MM APY in September.

Given the recent trend of market-resetting contracts, as seen with Ja’Marr Chase and Myles Garrett, Slater could potentially aim to become the first offensive lineman to earn at least $30MM per year. However, the Chargers may be hesitant to agree to such a figure this year. As OverTheCap projects, the 2026 franchise tag for offensive linemen is estimated to be $27.

6MM. The team could opt to use the franchise tag on Slater next offseason and continue negotiations after another salary cap increase. A second franchise tag in 2027 would cost $33.

1MM, resulting in a two-year average of $30.4MM, which could provide a basis for finding a middle ground in long-term contract discussions. This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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