Chargers news: Bolts make 2 new signings, Alohi Gilman injury, Josh Palmer update

Chargers football officially returned on Saturday as the team defeated the LA Rams in the first preseason game of the year. While the outcome ultimately does not matter, it was nice to see the Bolts back in action and able to secure a win.

The Chargers head back to the practice fields during the week as the team prepares for the second preseason game of the year against the New Orleans Saints. Before the game itself, the Chargers and Saints will hold two joint practices that will allow both teams to gauge where they are in the process.

It is an exciting time of the year for football fans as the anticipation for real NFL games continues to build. Here is everything that Chargers fans need to know heading into this week's action.

Chargers news roundup:

• After cutting Larry Rountree on Monday, the Chargers have made two new additions to the roster. The team signed cornerback Matt Hankins, who is coming off of a USFL Championship season with the Birmingham Stallions. The team also signed running back Aaron Shampklin, who previously spent time with the Dallas Cowboys alongside Kellen Moore.

• Alohi Gilman did not practice for the Chargers on Tuesday. Gilman was seen without his pads and a noticeable limp. Gilman is currently projected to start at safety alongside Derwin James. If Gilman is not ready to play in Week 1, sophomore JT Woods would likely step into the starting job.

• After missing the first preseason game of the year, wide receivers Joshua Palmer and John Hightower returned to practice Tuesday with their pads. After individual drills, the two receivers went over to the rehab area. They may not play this week against the Saints, but it bodes well for the start of the regular season.

NFL news roundup:

• Former Baltimore Ravens and Seattle Seahawks running back Alex Collins passed away on Monday after a motorcycle accident. Collins, 28, last played in the NFL in 2021.

• Ezekiel Elliott and Dalvin Cook found their homes for the 2023 season. Elliott signed a one-year deal worth up to $6 million with the New England Patriots and shortly thereafter, Cook signed a one-year deal worth up to $8.6 million with the New York Jets.

• Michael Oher, the former Pro Bowl offensive lineman who was the subject of the hit movie "The Blind Side" recently claimed that the Tuohy family never actually adopted him and "tricked" him into signing a conservatorship. Oher is suing with the intent of ending the conservatorship.