The Los Angeles Chargers are now 0-2 in the preseason following a 13-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday night. While there is no reason to sound alarm bells just because of that fact, for several players on the team, some big things are going to need to happen.
One thing that seems consistent with the team this season is that the players who have made plays continue to make plays and the players who need to step up and make one just aren't quite doing that. When the team has to cut down to 53 players, it could be pretty straightforward.
For at least three players, there could still be a sliver of hope that they stick around, but they are going to have to make something happen in the preseason finale against the Dallas Cowboys and in some cases, it probably needs to be something big.
These players were all expected to be part of the team's future at one point, perhaps even recently, but will quite possibly be on the outside looking in on cutdown day.
Chargers players who are barely hanging onto roster spot
Chris Rumph Jr., Edge
A foot injury recently suffered by Chris Rumph kept him out of the team's game against the Rams and likely sealed his fate when it comes to his future with the team.
The Chargers could place him on injured reserve, the PUP list or release him with an injury settlement. One of those seems likely and it could quite possibly be the latter, unless he's able to suit up and play against the Cowboys.
Isaiah Spiller, RB
Following the performance of Kimani Vidal against the Rams, it doesn't seem like there is a spot for Isaiah Spiller on this roster. If the Chargers decide to keep four backs, Jaret Patterson likely gets that over Spiller.
The Chargers should explore a potential trade so that they can get something for him rather than just waiving him. If no team bites, he is a likely cut candidate.
Easton Stick, QB
Easton Stick is playing his way off of this team.
Up until last year, Stick never had to do much aside from carrying a clipboard and taking some snaps in the preseason. But with recent injuries to Justin Herbert, he has been placed under center more often and it is becoming clear that he's just not very good.
I know everyone is piling on at this point but the Easton Stick regression is disappointing. I thought he showed enough growth last year to warrant his return. The film and the data from last year were that of someone who could be a mid-level backup in this league imo. The player…
— Steven Haglund (@StevenIHaglund) August 18, 2024
He threw an interception for the second straight preseason game on Saturday night and though the hope is that Herbert is ready to go in Week 1, the team needs a better backup QB. Stick will get the start against the Cowboys, but Luis Perez is competing for the job and quite frankly, looks better.
There is also the chance that the team's No. 2 quarterback is not currently on the roster.
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