Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 4
Chargers Defense Piles Up 6 Sacks and 1 Pick in First Padded Practice
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 4

Chargers Defense Piles Up 6 Sacks and 1 Pick in First Padded Practice

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 4

Summary

  • At least six sacks and an interception swung Tuesday’s first padded Chargers practice after Justin Herbert opened hot in seven-on-seven work at Torero Field.
  • 11-on-11 drills flipped the session: Derwin James Jr., Denzel Perryman and Teair Tart set the tone early, and Kendall Williamson ripped away Herbert’s pass intended for Tre’ Harris.
  • Undrafted rookie edge rusher Nadame Tucker emerged as an unlikely standout with two sacks, beating rookie linemen inside and outside and later generating pressure through a double-team.
  • Justin Herbert still flashed in red-zone work, hitting Ladd McConkey for a 25-yard touchdown and later finding Harris and Quentin Johnston for scores despite uneven protection and little run-game success.
  • Rashawn Slater left team drills after trainers checked his left leg, though he returned for conditioning work and Herbert said the left tackle did not sound concerned.

Insights

Did the Chargers’ first padded practice reveal a dominant defense, or expose troubling offensive line issues around Justin Herbert?
After Rashawn Slater’s early exit, how worried should the Chargers be about left tackle depth and Herbert’s protection?
How real is undrafted rookie Nadame Tucker’s breakout after multiple sacks and pressures in the Chargers’ most physical camp session?