Chargers training camp: Top rookies to watch for this summer

The Chargers had quite the offseason, one many deemed successful. They had some stellar additions to the team, including their rookie class.

The team had eight selections in April’s draft, and the expectation for most of them is to play a pivotal role in what will be a crucial 2026 season.

Los Angeles will look for these players to emerge as “win-now” pieces. Here are the four rookies to watch for as training camp and preseason are set to begin.

Smith will be in a heated battle with Tony Jefferson and R.J. Mickens for the third safety spot. And he has outstanding traits that could translate well in the NFL and help him earn the job in Year 1. The former Arizona Wildcat has elite size at 6-foot-2, tracks the ball exceptionally well and has lower-body explosiveness. The Chargers praised his play at the end of minicamps due to his early anticipation. Being in a room with All-Pro Derwin James will only help take his game to another level.

The Chargers emphasized offensive line depth in the draft, and it all started with the selection of Slaughter in the second round. Slaughter will have the opportunity to compete for an immediate role at left guard, a position that he didn’t play in college. However, the team believes he can translate well to, given his skillset. If things pan out, Slaughter could fit right in and establish himself as a long-term starter.

Mesidor enters training camp with massive expectations as the crown jewel of the Chargers’ 2026 draft class. The former Miami Hurricane is a highly refined, heavy-handed pass rusher coming off a monster 12.5-sack season. At 25 years old, he is widely viewed as a seasoned player whose technical maturity and physical strength make him immediately ready for the pro transition. The team plans to maximize his unique alignment flexibility, allowing him to disrupt both from the edge and by kicking inside to rush over guards.

Thompson enters training camp as the single most explosive weapon added to the roster. If his track-star acceleration and deep-ball tracking translate cleanly into the offense during camp, Thompson will give quarterback Justin Herbert a vertical element that defenses must account for. Additionally, while he didn’t have the responsibilities in college, Thompson could also push for return specialist duties.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers training camp: Top rookies to watch for this summer