As the NFL preseason comes to an end, teams are scrambling to make their final cuts and solidify their 53-man rosters. The deadline for these decisions is just days away, with teams having until 1 p.m. PT on Tuesday, August 26 to make their final choices. For the Los Angeles Chargers, this is a crucial time as they prepare for the regular season. And with the future in mind, head coach Jim Harbaugh and his team are already looking ahead to potential roster changes and improvements.
One of the biggest concerns for the Chargers heading into the regular season is the absence of star safety Derwin James. James suffered a season-ending foot injury during training camp, leaving a significant hole in the Chargers’ defense. But as the team looks to move forward, they are already planning for James’ eventual return.
In a recent interview, Chargers defensive coordinator Gus Bradley shared his thoughts on the team’s roster plans and how they are preparing for James’ return. According to Bradley, the team is looking at potential replacements for James in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. While this may seem like a long way off, it shows the team’s dedication to building a strong and sustainable roster.
Bradley also mentioned that the Chargers are looking for players with similar skill sets to James, who can make an immediate impact on the field. This not only speaks to the team’s confidence in James’ abilities but also their determination to find the best possible replacements.
But the Chargers’ future plans don’t stop there. They are also looking at potential roster changes and improvements in other areas. With the regular season fast approaching, the team is focused on fine-tuning their roster and making the necessary adjustments to ensure success on the field.
One of the key areas the Chargers are looking to improve is their offensive line. The team has struggled in this department in recent years, and they are determined to make changes to solidify their line and protect their quarterback. With the addition of veteran offensive lineman Bryan Bulaga and rookie Justin Herbert, the Chargers are hoping to see a significant improvement in their offensive line this season.
Another area of focus for the Chargers is their running game. With the departure of Melvin Gordon, the team will be relying on Austin Ekeler and Justin Jackson to carry the load. However, the Chargers are also looking at potential additions to their running back group and are open to making changes if needed.
As the Chargers look to build a strong and competitive roster, they are also keeping an eye on the future. With the 2026 NFL Draft in mind, the team is looking to add young and talented players who can contribute immediately and help the team reach their ultimate goal of winning a Super Bowl.
In addition to their roster plans, the Chargers are also focused on building a strong team culture. Under the leadership of Jim Harbaugh, the team is determined to create a winning mentality and a sense of unity among players. This will be crucial as the team faces tough competition in the highly competitive AFC West division.
As the regular season approaches, the Chargers are confident in their roster and their ability to make the necessary adjustments to achieve success on the field. With a strong mix of experienced veterans and talented young players, the team is poised for a successful season.
In conclusion, the Chargers are well aware of the approaching deadline to make their final roster decisions. With the future in mind, they are already looking at potential replacements for injured star Derwin James in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team is also focused on making improvements in key areas such as the offensive line and running game. With a strong team culture and a determined mindset, the Chargers are ready to take on the upcoming season and make a run for the Super Bowl.