Certain LA Chargers have to impress to avoid being cut.
In a year like no other, the NFL is going to be having a preseason like no other.
Of course, most fans are aware that all preseason games have been eliminated, so training camp is even more important this year than in years past. Also, in light of this and the fact that most teams will be dealing with more “injuries” than in years past, there are new roster rules.
Originally, the new CBA agreement dictated that the practice squad would be expanded to 12 players (from 10), active game-day rosters would be expanded to 48 (from 46), and the active roster size would stay at 53.
However, an amendment to these rules was created in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic to allow for additional practice squad spots. While the exact rules are complicated, here are the basics – there will be 16 practice squad spots this year.
Six of those players do not have to follow usual experience-related restrictions (meaning veterans can be on the practice squad), and four of those players can be “protected” during each week.
What does all of this mean for the 53-man roster?
Primarily, anyone is subject to being cut because anyone can be put on the practice squad.
For that reason, we can expect more surprising cuts to occur this offseason like the early cuts of Andre Patton and Roderic Teamer.
So, as you watch Hard Knocks this year, keep an eye out for these players who will need to show out if they hope to keep their spot on the LA Chargers 53-man roster.