Back in June's mandatory minicamp, there was a relatively positive feeling about the Chargers' extension talks with Rashawn Slater. The Pro Bowl LT practiced in full during minicamp after missing OTAs. Concerns about his absence at OTAs were quelled after he practiced last month. Asked why he participated despite an ongoing contract negotiation, Slater said this:
"It's my team. I'm in a contract. I don't want to miss any time," Slater said. "I love being here. It's important, this is what we do. I love these guys, I wouldn't miss that. Just pretty simple."
At the time, Slater's presence at minicamp was a contrast to stars on other teams that were missing offseason time because of contract disputes. That attitude towards practicing looks like it will be kept for the teams' upcoming minicamp.
#Chargers GM Joe Hortiz said Rashawn Slater has reported for camp. He said contract negotiations are ongoing. Hortiz expects Slater to practice.
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) July 16, 2025
Rashawn Slater reports to Chargers training camp amid ongoing contract talks
Slater's full participation in both minicamp and training camp would be an encouraging sign towards getting a deal done.
It's an expected outcome certainly after he effectively said he'd likely participate in the full offseason process back in June. But considering other contract situations around the league as mentioned before, it's still good to hear relatively positive progress for Slater and the Chargers.
At the same time as this negotiation, Los Angeles is dealing with a holdout from rookie WR Tre Harris.
The Chargers have a habit of getting their deals done during training camp in the summer offseason period. Chargers QB Justin Herbert finalized his big money extension just days before camp in 2023. All-Pro S Derwin James worked out a deal with the team in August of 2022.
Assuming everything is on track with Slater's agent, it's more likely a matter of when as opposed to if for a deal getting done soon.
Slater's training camp presence is also key for an offensive line that is still working out the kinks. New RG Mekhi Becton will be in his first training camp with the Chargers. LA also has a center competition between Bradley Bozeman and Zion Johnson that will be settled this offseason.