The Los Angeles Chargers have their first preseason game on Saturday against the Seattle Seahawks. Though it has not been determined who’s starting, let’s look at some key players that may be suiting up.
6 Players To Watch In The First Los Angeles Chargers Preseason Game
1. A.J. Finley, Safety
Finley has been making some noise during the first couple of weeks of camp. On day seven, Los Angeles Chargers writer Eric Smith noted Finley had a pass breakup and an interception in seven-on-sevens.
Daniel Popper of The Athletic noted that Finley’s been getting some first-team playing time and is there whenever safety Derwin James has been shifted to other areas.
Finley has also been involved in special teams, so I’m curious to see him in action with these new kickoff rules during this first game. That third safety spot has yet to be claimed, so he could continue making his case in the upcoming matchup.
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2. Brenden Rice, Wide Receiver
Rice’s name has come up quite a few times during camp observations as he’s made several receptions, including, according to Smith, “an over-the-shoulder catch down the left sideline for a big gain” on day three.
While on day four, Popper relayed that Rice had a 35-yard touchdown on a reception from quarterback Easton Stick.
Given the production from receivers like D.J. Chark and Ladd McConkey, it’s harder to gauge where Rice fits within this position group. He seems to be off to a good start and these preseason games may carve out more of a definite role.
3. Justin Eboigbe, Defensive Lineman
Drafted in the fourth round at pick 105, Eboigbe is a name that hasn’t been mentioned a whole lot during camp. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Eboigbe had career-high stats in his last year at Alabama in areas like defensive snaps played (657), sacks (seven), hurries (18), and STOPs (31).
The Chargers have been lacking consistent run defenders, so Eboigbe is much needed. I’m curious whether we’ll see more of his pass rush or run defense on Saturday.
4. Max Duggan, Quarterback
I certainly expect Duggan to get some playing time in this upcoming Los Angeles Chargers Preseason matchup as he played in most of the preseason games last year. His preseason play in 2023 was typical of a rookie.
In the first game, he was under a lot of pressure, suffering a few sacks. And he didn’t play in the second matchup, as former head coach Brandon Staley wanted to give Stick the reps. His final game was his best with quite a few rushes and a touchdown to tight end Hunter Kampmoyer.
Offensive coordinator Greg Roman said after the joint practice against the Rams that they may work more on designed runs with Duggan, so I expect to see more of that in this first game.
Duggan has had a few shining moments during camp, including a throw to Rice on day three, where Popper said that “overall, Duggan has shown a bump in arm strength and velocity so far in camp.” Duggan also had a touchdown pass to wide receiver Jaylen Johnson on day six.
Though Duggan didn’t play during the 2023 regular season, with one year in the NFL and two weeks of camp, it’ll be a good sign if his play has improved in live game situations.
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5. Brenden Jaimes, Offensive Lineman
Popper reported on day nine that Jaimes has been filling in as the sixth lineman since guard Jamaree Salyer has been out of practice. Jaimes so far has been spending time at guard and center.
Roman said that though Jaimes has been playing a lot at center, it’s important he plays both positions as he needs to have that position flexibility. I expect Jaimes to play at center a bit during the preseason game, as that’s where he’s listed on the unofficial depth chart that was released.
Jaimes has been with the Chargers for a couple of years, and the most snaps he’s ever played were in 2023 when he started three games at center. The Chargers don’t have a lot of depth behind Bradley Bozeman, so if Jaimes plays at center in the preseason game, he’ll hopefully demonstrate that he’s up to the task of being a competent backup.
6. Isaiah Spiller, Running Back
I’ve written about Spiller extensively after the last couple of years and preseason tends to be the time he shines, especially in these exhibition games. The running back room has become crowded with rookie and veteran additions, and after some underwhelming seasons in the NFL, stemming from injury and lack of opportunity, these preseason games may be make or break for Spiller.