The Los Angeles Chargers enter mandatory minicamp with encouraging news surrounding several key players returning from injury. Left tackle Rashawn Slater is ahead of schedule in his recovery from the knee injury that cost him the entire 2025 season, while fellow offensive tackle Joe Alt continues progressing from the ankle injury that limited him to six games last year. Veteran edge rusher Bud Dupree is also on a managed workload as the Chargers take a cautious approach ahead of training camp. Meanwhile, quarterback Justin Herbert is fully healthy and has been an active participant throughout the offseason program.
Rashawn Slater - Patellar Tendon
Slater appears to be fully recovered from the torn right patellar tendon that cost him the entire 2025 season. The Chargers left tackle has been a full participant in OTAs and mandatory minicamp, taking progressive reps with no reported limitations.
Now roughly 10 months removed from surgery, Slater said he feels "great" and is expected to be a full go for training camp. His participation throughout the offseason program is an encouraging sign that he has successfully returned from one of the more significant injuries an offensive lineman can suffer.
Joe Alt - Ankle
Alt continues to progress well in his recovery from the high right ankle sprain that required season-ending surgery last year. The Chargers tackle has been participating in OTAs and mandatory minicamp with a gradual ramp-up, taking part in both individual drills and team work.
Importantly, there have been no reported setbacks, and Alt remains on track to be fully cleared for training camp. The Chargers expect the former first-round pick to return as the anchor of the right side of their offensive line heading into the 2026 season.
Bud Dupree - Hamstring
Dupree has been limited during Chargers OTAs as the team carefully manages a lingering hamstring issue that bothered him at times during the 2025 season. The veteran edge rusher has missed portions of the offseason program and has seen his workload reduced as a precaution. Dupree is expected to attend mandatory minicamp, though his participation will likely remain limited while the Chargers monitor his progress. The team is taking a cautious approach with the veteran pass rusher as it works to have him fully available for training camp and the start of the regular season.
Ladd McConkey - Hamstring
McConkey worked on the side during Tuesday’s practice after straining his hamstring earlier in the offseason program. He said he does not have any serious concerns about the injury and expects to be ready for training camp.
