Rashawn Slater Contract Backfires? What the Chargers Still Owe the Pro Bowl LT After Shocking Patellar Tendon Injury

Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Rashawn Slater suffered a season-ending injury on Thursday, 7 August 2025, just days after signing a record-setting contract extension. The 26-year-old collapsed during an 11-on-11 drill with what was later confirmed to be a torn patellar tendon in his left leg. The incident occurred at the Chargers' training facility and has since raised major questions about the timing of his new $114 million (£84.7 million) deal.

Slater Carted Off After Visible Agony on the Field

Eyewitnesses at the Chargers' camp described the moment Slater went down during a non-contact sequence. Trainers and medical staff rushed to the scene before he was carted off the field, visibly emotional and holding his head in his hands.

According to Daniel Popper of The Athletic, Slater was seen slamming his hand on the cart out of frustration. 'Slater slammed his hand on the cart and buried his head in his hands. A trainer put a towel over his head before two trainers helped Slater inside. Slater could not put any weight on his left leg', said Popper.

Within hours, the Chargers confirmed that he had suffered a torn patellar tendon and will undergo surgery to repair the injury. He is expected to miss the entire 2025 season.

Head coach Jim Harbaugh declined to comment on the long-term implications but expressed confidence in the team's medical staff and rehabilitation plans.

Rashawn Slater's Contract: Largest for a Lineman in NFL History

In late July, Slater signed a four-year, $114 million (£84.7 million) contract extension with the Chargers, the richest deal in history for an NFL offensive lineman. The contract includes $92 million (£68.4 million) in guaranteed money and an average annual salary of $28.5 million (£22 million). The timing of the injury — coming less than a week after signing — has placed the franchise under increased scrutiny regarding its risk assessment process.

The Chargers are now contractually obligated to pay the guaranteed sum regardless of Slater's injury status. Details of his signing bonus and injury protection clauses have not been made public.

Was the Extension Too Soon? Injury History Raises Eyebrows

While Slater has been a standout performer since entering the league as the 13th overall pick in 2021, he did miss the majority of the 2022 season with torn biceps. Though he returned to Pro Bowl form in 2024, critics are now questioning the timing of the extension. With no on-field games yet played under the new deal, fans and analysts alike have begun to debate whether the Chargers acted prematurely.

Some insiders suggest the team had hoped to lock in their cornerstone left tackle before prices escalated further in the open market. Others argue that the injury highlights the inherent risks of large guaranteed contracts in the NFL.

Chargers' Depth Chart Adjustments Underway

In the wake of the injury, right tackle Trey Pipkins III is expected to be shifted into Slater's role on the blindside. Rookie Joe Alt, a top draft pick this year and versatile lineman Jamaree Salyer are also under consideration for key starting roles.

With Slater out for the year, the offensive line will be under pressure to protect quarterback Justin Herbert as the Chargers face a tough early schedule. Analysts have noted that the team's offensive depth is now a critical concern heading into the 2025 season.

NFL's Ongoing Debate on Guaranteed Money and Injury Risk

Slater's situation has reignited conversations across the league about the balance between rewarding elite talent and managing long-term injury risk. With $92 million (£68.4 million) committed, the Chargers' front office faces scrutiny over its contractual approach. Meanwhile, other franchises may begin reassessing their strategies around high-value guaranteed contracts, especially in high-contact positions like offensive line.