As far as the Los Angeles Chargers are concerned, training camp is another way to prove a player's loyalty in the squad. Well, it definitely paid off for left tackle Rashawn Slater as the Chargers finally agreed to sign him up for a four-year, $114 million deal that guarantees him to get at least $92 million to begin with.

Slater's extension was announced by the team as soon as they agreed upon it, and it cannot be denied that it was worth the trouble, as the LT proved to be one of the best players in the game in his position, especially with his previous season's performances really stunning the fans so far.

Since joining Los Angeles, Slater has become one of the most prominent players in the roster. He was selected back in the 2021 draft as the 13th overall pick, and has been a two-time Pro Bowler in that span. The left tackle was slated to play on his $19 million fifth-year rookie option had it not been for the deal, which meant that he would not have any financial security beyond 2025.

Earning the Contract

If there was one player who definitely deserved every penny of his deal with the team, it was Slater. After all, the left tackle remains an elite performer in the squad, and so the Chargers were definitely keen to continue negotiations with him back in July 16th, when he first reported to training camp with the hopes of a new deal.

Justin Herberts blindside protector was impressive in most of his years with the team. He earned a Pro Bowl nod and a second-team All-Pro selection in his rookie career. He also placed fourth in AP Offensive Rookie of the Year voting that time. His second season was hampered by a torn biceps, but he returned in stellar form since then and has been durable with only three missed games in the next three seasons.

At the age of 26, Slater definitely became a perfect fit for the system that head coach Jim Harbaugh had worked with so far, and even with the schemes of offensive coordinator Greg Roman. He has been an unmovable piece guarding the left side of the line, and bringing him in for more years to come means a secure run with Herbert as well.

In 2024, Slater finished second overall among tackles with a grade of 91.1. He was also third in pass blocking at 90.4 and fifth in run blocking at 82.8 If you are still not impressed, he allowed the sixth-lowest pressure rate at 7.8% and the seventh-lowest sack rate at 1.0%, which is definitely a stunning proof of his hard work.

What's Next for Slater

This year is coming to be a challenge of finding versatile offensive options for Herbert, and it means a lot of adjustments for the left tackle as well. On top of that, there's Najee Harris and Omarion Hampton coming into the squad, which means that Slater will definitely need to make his presence felt.

The formula may change at some point, but the Chargers have definitely made sure that he will be part of the team's schemes moving forward. The new contract signing was just a proof of their commitment to the left tackle moving forward, and it would be a promising look to keep an eye out moving forward.