Chargers offensive tackle Rashawn Slater believes his team is ready to take the next step in 2026.
Slater told ESPN’s Kris Rhim that he thinks the Chargers know they’re capable of more.
“I just think we’re hungry,” Slater said. “I think everyone that’s been here for a while knows we’re due to go win. We’re due to go execute and do what we know we’re capable of. And so we’re all on the same page, and the excitement’s in the air.”
The past handful of seasons haven’t ended well for the Chargers. Despite back-to-back 11-win seasons, the Chargers did not show up in the playoffs, totaling just 15 points in those contests.
However, the Chargers and Slater expect that to be a thing of the past. They revamped their offense significantly and added offensive mastermind Mike McDaniel.
They hope that can spark a big change throughout the season and, more importantly, when it matters most: in the playoffs.
Slater, 27, has established himself as an elite, franchise-caliber left tackle in the NFL. He did so early on in his career after the Chargers selected him 13th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft.
The former Northwestern Wildcat will look for a healthy 2026 season, continuing to showcase his stellar technique and high-level pass protection. He missed all of the 2025 season with a torn patellar tendon in his left knee.
The 2025 season was a waste; however, Slater will look to return to the play he showed in 2024. That season, he earned a 90.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, which ranked second only to Eagles tackle Jordan Mailata.
During minicamp, Slater said he feels like he is back to normal.
“Whatever is in front of me, I just give it everything I have,” Slater said.
“It will be no different then. It’s not a thing like, ‘I’m not going to be able to play.’ I know what I can do. It feels great. Just working every day, trying to have my best day every day and improve every day. I know it’s all going to take care of itself.”
According to Fox Sports, the Chargers have the eighth-best odds to win the Super Bowl at +1700.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Rashawn Slater sends confident message about Chargers
Reporting by Ricardo Sandoval , Chargers Wire / Chargers Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Ricardo Sandoval , Chargers Wire | USA TODAY Network
