The Los Angeles Chargers are set to embark on their first preseason game under head coach Jim Harbaugh. The team has had a productive training camp and many of the roster spots on this team are already set, but there will still be plenty to be decided in the preseason.
Looking at the current 90-man roster, 35 players can safely be put on the 53-man roster, in all likelihood. That leaves 18 spots still to be decided. That could be a bit of a bold prediction, but considering how Jim Harbaugh will build this team, I like their chances.
If these 35 players are locks to make the roster, where does the remainder of the final 53-man squad come from?
35 Chargers who are locks to make final roster
Quarterback
Justin Herbert
The only QB who is safe is Justin Herbert. Easton Stick likely makes it as his backup, but he will have to fend off Max Duggan and the newly signed Luis Perez.
Running back
Gus Edwards, J.K. Dobbins
The Chargers almost certainly won't cut sixth-round pick Kimani Vidal, but is there a chance they could keep Jaret Patterson and/or Isaiah Spiller over him? Sure. It's a very small chance, though.
Wide receiver
Joshua Palmer, Ladd McConkey, D.J. Chark, Quentin Johnston
Tight end
Will Dissly, Hayden Hurst
There may not be a clear starter between these two right now, but they'll both make the team.
Offensive line
Rashawn Slater, Zion Johnson, Trey Pipkins, Joe Alt, Jamaree Salyer
Bradley Bozeman will almost certainly be the starting center, but there is still a chance someone takes his job.
Defensive line
Morgan Fox, Justin Eboigbe, Poona Ford
This might be the toughest position group to predict and there may not be many sure things. Justin Eboigbe, taken in the fourth round, likely won't be a starter but he's definitely making the team.
Edge rusher
Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipolotu, Bud Dupree
This is pretty self-explanatory and seems easy to envision. The Chargers have a chance to have one of the best pass-rushing groups in the league with this quartet.
Inside linebacker
Junior Colson, Daiyan Henley, Denzel Perryman
It's tempting to put Troy Dye here as well and he will most likely make the team, but he still has to hold off some guys before that is realized.
Cornerback
Asante Samuel Jr., Kristian Fulton, Cam Hart, Tarheeb Still, Ja'Sir Taylor
This is a good, young group. Kristian Fulton has solidified himself as a starter with a terrific camp.
Safety
Derwin James, Alohi Gilman, A.J. Finley
The starters are clear. A.J. Finley should easily make the team as well.
Specialists
Cameron Dicker, J.K. Scott, Josh Harris
There is no other competition for any of these positions, so this will be your kicker, punter and long snapper this season.
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