News Summary
The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off the 2025 NFL preseason with a strong performance against the New Orleans Saints, highlighted by rookie cornerback Eric Rogers’ impressive debut. Rogers intercepted two passes, including a 43-yard pick-six, and showcased exceptional coverage skills before leaving the game with a lower-body injury. Despite this, the Chargers triumphed 27-13, with contributions from quarterback Trey Lance and rookie defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell. The game also raised concerns about injuries within the team as they prepare for the season ahead.
Los Angeles, CA – The 2025 NFL preseason commenced with an impressive debut from rookie cornerback Eric Rogers of the Los Angeles Chargers. An undrafted free agent from Rutgers, Rogers shone brightly in the season opener against the New Orleans Saints, intercepting two passes, including a notable 43-yard pick-six in the third quarter of the game.
Rogers demonstrated exceptional skills in coverage, successfully defending five targets without allowing a single catch. His standout performance is projected to earn him one of the highest PFF coverage grades for a preseason game, indicating a potentially bright future for this undrafted talent.
Despite his impressive performance, Rogers left the game with an undisclosed lower-body injury and was spotted on crutches post-match. The Chargers, however, secured a victory over the Saints, winning 27-13, marking their second win of the preseason.
In addition to Rogers, the game featured a solid performance from quarterback Trey Lance, who led the Chargers with a completion rate of 50%, throwing for 55 yards on 7-of-14 passing attempts. Lance also showcased his athleticism by rushing for 48 yards and scoring a touchdown. The dual-threat ability of Lance highlighted the Chargers’ offensive strategy as they look to build momentum heading into the regular season.
The Chargers’ defense was also bolstered by the impactful play of rookie defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell. Caldwell registered a sack on Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough and totaled four tackles, adding to the Chargers’ defensive prowess throughout the contest.
On the other side, Tyler Shough made his debut for the Saints, completing 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. While Shough showed promise in his performance, fellow quarterback Spencer Rattler started the game, finishing with 7-of-11 passing for 53 yards, with an average hold time of over three seconds in the pocket.
The game also illuminated the growing concern regarding injuries within the Chargers organization. The team had already been affected earlier in the offseason with the loss of star left tackle Rashawn Slater to a season-ending injury, prompting discussions about depth and resilience as they navigate the preseason schedule.
Looking ahead, the Chargers will face off against the Los Angeles Rams at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, promising another intense matchup as they continue their preparation for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, the Saints are set to compete against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, aiming to bounce back from their preseason opening defeat and solidify their lineup for the regular season.
As the preseason progresses, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close watch on both teams, particularly on rookies like Eric Rogers, who have the potential to make significant contributions as they strive to secure their place on the final rosters.
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Additional Resources
- CBS Sports
- Los Angeles Chargers Official Video Highlights
- NFL Highlights
- ESPN Game Recap
- Pro Football Focus Game Recap
- Wikipedia: National Football League
- Google Search: 2025 NFL preseason
- Google Scholar: Eric Rogers NFL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Football League
- Google News: Eric Rogers injury
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