An awkward collision left Biadasz unable to put weight on his left leg, as Los Angeles faces another significant injury scare along the offensive line.
The Los Angeles Chargers’ offensive line suffered another potentially significant setback Tuesday, as starting center Tyler Biadasz was carted off the field during a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers.
Biadasz went down during an 11-on-11 period after 49ers defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez fell onto his left knee. The veteran center was unable to put weight on the leg and was eventually taken off the field on a cart. The Bolts have not yet announced the extent of the injury.
The timing could not be any worse for Los Angeles and Biadasz. He signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Chargers this offseason and was brought in to solidify the middle of an offensive line that has undergone significant changes.
Biadasz entered the 2026 season with considerable experience, having started all 16 games for the Washington Commanders in 2025. Now, Los Angeles could potentially be forced to turn to rookie Jake Slaughter.
The Chargers selected Slaughter in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, and while he has been competing for a role along the interior of the offensive line, Tuesday's injury suddenly put him in the spotlight at center. Slaughter replaced Biadasz following the injury during practice after a strong preseason debut.
For Slaughter, the situation is difficult because of the relationship he has developed with Biadasz since arriving in Los Angeles.
“That hurt me. He’s been nothing but a wonderful mentor,” Slaughter said of Biadasz’s injury.
The rookie added that the team is “just hoping and praying he’s in a good spot.”
While Slaughter's comments showed his concern for his teammate, he also understands that the Bolts may need him to step into a much larger role depending on the severity of Biadasz's injury.
“I take it as a blessing I can help the team in any way that I can,” Slaughter said when asked about potentially becoming the starting center.
However, the Chargers can only wait for more information to this point.
Biadasz's injury occurred during an otherwise valuable joint practice against the 49ers, but the focus immediately shifted when the veteran center went down. Until Los Angeles provides an official diagnosis, the biggest question surrounding the offensive line will be whether Biadasz can return quickly or whether Slaughter will have to take over the center position.
Either way, Tuesday provided a reminder of how quickly the outlook of an NFL roster can change during training camp.
