As the Los Angeles Chargers finalized their initial 53-man roster on August 31, 2026, the biggest headline was the confirmation of Trey Lance as the backup quarterback. Despite a strong preseason push from DJ Uiagalelei, the Chargers stuck with Lance, who brings familiarity with offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel's system from their time together with the San Francisco 49ers. Lance's role as QB2 was solidified after the team's preseason finale, where Uiagalelei outperformed him, but the coaching staff valued Lance's experience and understanding of the offense.
Quarterback Competition: Experience Wins Out
Lance, a former first-round pick, has been on a journey to revive his NFL career. After stints with the 49ers and Dallas Cowboys, he found a home in Los Angeles. "My mindset has just been stacking days," Lance said. "As many days as I can have; good days that I could feel good about. Good reps [or] bad reps, I learn from them all." The Chargers' decision to keep Lance over Uiagalelei signals a preference for a veteran presence behind starter Justin Herbert, especially given McDaniel's complex offensive scheme.
Surprising Cuts: JK Scott and Jaret Patterson Released
In a surprising move, the Chargers released veteran punter JK Scott, who had been with the team for nine seasons. Scott's preseason was marred by poor tackling effort and a shanked punt, drawing criticism from special teams coordinator Ryan Ficken. "As competitors, yeah, I don't like seeing that on tape," Ficken said. The team may look to bring Scott back, but for now, they're exploring options. Similarly, running back Jaret Patterson was let go, unable to carve out a role in a crowded backfield led by Omarion Hampton. Undrafted free agents Greg Desrosiers Jr. and Amar Johnson also didn't make the cut, despite Desrosiers' impressive 118-yard rushing performance against the Rams. "I feel like I did everything I needed to do to kind of put all the teams on notice [and] put the front office here on notice," Desrosiers said.
Roster Moves and Trades
The Chargers made several other notable moves, including trading cornerback Avery Smith to the Seattle Seahawks for a 2027 sixth-round pick, and defensive lineman TeRah Ewards to the Carolina Panthers for a 2028 sixth-round pick. These trades opened spots for undrafted rookie cornerback Rodney Shelley, who impressed with five tackles and a pass breakup against the Rams, and offensive lineman Jacob Spomer, who adds depth after Branson Taylor was placed on injured reserve. The team also waived intriguing players like wideout Dalevon Campbell, outside linebacker Kyle Kennard, and linebacker Junior Colson, a 2024 third-round pick.
Coach Harbaugh's Perspective on Cuts
Head coach Jim Harbaugh addressed the difficult nature of roster cuts, emphasizing his belief in the players who didn't make the team. "I can't really think of anybody that I'm going to tell their football lives are over to," Harbaugh said. "I can't think of one guy I'd say that to. I just don't believe that. I'm probably going to put myself in their shoes and hopefully give them some great advice [on] what to do next. It's going to be said with encouragement and love, because I truly believe in them." Many of these players could return via the practice squad, keeping their NFL dreams alive.
As the Chargers prepare for the regular season, these roster decisions reflect a balance between experience and potential. With Lance as the backup, the team aims to maintain stability behind Herbert, while the aggressive moves in the secondary and defensive line show a commitment to improving depth. The season ahead holds promise, and the Chargers' front office has made bold choices to position the team for success.
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