NFL Preseason Developments: Chargers Focus on Left Guard Position Battle

NFL teams have completed organized team activities (OTAs) and minicamps. Following a month-long hiatus, training camps are set to resume in late July. The first preseason game will occur on Thursday, August 6, broadcasted on NBC. The matchup will feature the Carolina Panthers against the Arizona Cardinals in the Hall of Fame Game. The rest of the preseason’s first week unfolds from August 13 to 15, with subsequent weeks scheduled from August 20 to 23 and August 27 to 29.

Prior to the preseason games, teams are required to report to training camp. The Los Angeles Chargers have yet to specify the date for their training camp, but one key aspect to monitor is their prominent position battle.

Position Battle: Left Guard

The Chargers aim to address a significant vacancy in their offensive line due to the departure of guard Zion Johnson, a notable first-round pick in 2022. Johnson, a towering figure at 6-foot-3, 316 pounds, participated in 1,130 offensive snaps last season, conceding 29 pressures, 17 hurries, and five sacks.

The task of replacing Johnson involves selecting from two seasoned veterans and one rookie. Trevor Penning emerges as the leading candidate. At 27 years old, Penning has accumulated 33 NFL starts. His versatility along the offensive line is reflected in his experience: 1,081 snaps at right tackle, 511 snaps at left tackle, 358 snaps at left guard, and 90 snaps at right guard.

Despite Penning’s extensive starting experience, Kayode Awosika boasts greater exposure to the guard position. Over five seasons, including four with the Detroit Lions and one with the Philadelphia Eagles, Awosika has recorded 615 snaps at left guard and 358 at right guard.

Jake Slaughter presents a unique option. Selected by the Chargers in the second round of the 2026 draft, he stood out among the four offensive linemen picked by the team, alongside OT Travis Burke, OG Logan Taylor, and OG Alex Harkey. Slaughter dedicated his college career to playing center, accumulating 2,142 snaps. The Chargers possess optimism for his transition to the guard position despite being the third choice.

Slaughter’s potential to secure playing time at guard during his rookie season should not be underestimated. He adds an element of unpredictability to the competition.