The Los Angeles Chargers selected Florida Gators center Jake Slaughter with the No. 63 overall selection in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday night. One of the most accomplished interior linemen in the nation, Slaughter leverages his consistent, decorated collegiate career into an opportunity with the L.A.
The 6-foot-4-inch, 308-pound center served on the Gators’ offensive front for three years while being tabbed an All-American in back-to-back seasons. Beyond physical attributes, Slaughter brings experience adjusting pass protection at the line of scrimmage. Touting for his elite football IQ and awareness, the 2024 Rimington Trophy Finalist’s defining strength is diagnosing defensive schemes and stifling inside pressure.
For the Chargers, Slaughter projects as a project with starting potential that can compete with rotational snaps immediately. Assuming he continues to develop physically and improves in run blocking, his overall profile suggests a high floor for the Sparr, Florida native.
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This article originally appeared on Gators Wire: Florida C Jake Slaughter selected by LA Chargers in 2026 NFL Draft
Reporting by Michael Long, Gators Wire / Gators Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
