Rashawn Slater ends his holdout and returns for Chargers minicamp in June 2025. Coach Jim Harbaugh praises the team's perfect attendance and 'all in' mentality.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The Los Angeles Chargers opened mandatory minicamp on Wednesday with a significant development and a powerful statement: star left tackle Rashawn Slater ended his offseason holdout, and every single player was present and accounted for. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh couldn't hide his satisfaction, praising a roster that is clearly buying into his high-energy, high-commitment culture as the team builds on last season's momentum.
He passed it. It was too easy for him.
The biggest question mark of the offseason was answered when Rashawn Slater, fresh off two Pro Bowls and a second-team All-Pro nod, walked into the facility. After missing voluntary OTAs while his agents negotiate a contract extension, Slater's presence for the mandatory session signals good faith from both sides. Not only did he show up, but he immediately dominated the conditioning test. 'He passed it. It was too easy for him,' Harbaugh told the media, a testament to Slater's professionalism. With Slater entering the final year of his rookie deal, set to make around $19 million, his return is a crucial first step toward a long-term agreement to protect the franchise quarterback's blindside for years to come.
On the other side of the ball, the message from the defensive leaders was clear: consistency. Safeties Derwin James Jr. and Alohi Gilman spoke about the advantage of being in their second year under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter's system. 'We're able to play faster because we're not thinking as much,' James noted. Both veterans praised the impact of new safeties coach Adam Fuller and gave shoutouts to emerging talents like second-year cornerback Tarheeb Still and linebacker Daiyan Henley, highlighting the defensive depth and chemistry being built.
While the defense focuses on consistency, the offense is seeing some exciting evolution. The wide receiver room, bolstered by the record-breaking rookie season of Ladd McConkey, looks dynamic. In the backfield, with J.K. Dobbins remaining a free agent, former Steeler Najee Harris is primed to take over as the lead back. The team is also experimenting along the offensive line, with Zion Johnson taking reps at center. To potentially add more veteran depth to the passing game, the Chargers also brought in 32-year-old receiver Willie Snead IV for a tryout during camp.
The perfect attendance on day one of minicamp is the latest evidence of the 'Harbaugh Effect.' The head coach beamed when discussing the team's work ethic, noting that players are so dedicated that the staff sometimes has to 'kick them out of the building.' This commitment, from established veterans to eager rookies, is fostering a competitive and focused environment. It's a stark contrast to years past and a clear sign that the entire organization is aligned and pulling in the same direction as they prepare for the 2025 campaign.
With perfect attendance and a star tackle back in the fold, the energy in El Segundo is palpable. The next big question is when, not if, the Chargers will lock up Rashawn Slater with a long-term deal. As minicamp wraps up tomorrow, all eyes will be on the front office to secure their franchise cornerstone before the team breaks for the summer, solidifying the foundation for a highly anticipated 2025 season.
