The Chargers were bitten by the injury bug Tuesday during a joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers in El Segundo.
Center Tyler Biadasz went down hard after 49ers defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez fell on his left leg during an 11-on-11 drill. Biadasz, who was unable to put weight on his left leg, was carted off the field and visibly upset.
“Obviously praying for the best,” Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert said. “I don’t know exactly what happened. And I haven’t heard the report back. But hoping for the best for him.”
Biadasz was replaced by rookie offensive lineman Jake Slaughter, who is among the candidates to play left guard.
“Yeah, man, that hurt me,” Slaughter said. “He’s been nothing but a wonderful mentor. He’s been such a good leader in the room, helping me see the big picture better. We’re hoping and praying he’s in a good spot, and it’s nothing serious.”
Outside linebacker Kyle Kennard exited practice with a trainer after limping off the field.
Read more:Chargers preseason opener takeaways: Amar Johnson adds intrigue to running back battle
Wide receiver Quentin Johnston limped to the sideline after attempting a leaping catch. It appeared to be a lower-body injury, and trainers worked on him afterward.
The Chargers have consistently endured devastating injuries over the years.
And it seems there’s a good chance they’ll be shorthanded at SoFi Stadium during Week 2 of preseason play against the 49ers.
“I take it as a blessing that I can help the team in any way that I can,” Slaughter said about potentially starting at center if Biadasz is sidelined for an extended period of time.
This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.