6 Chargers who could be impacted the most by the draft selections
Following the selection of eight new players, these six Chargers veterans face the most immediate impact on their roles or roster security.
The 2026 Chargers draft class focused heavily on replenishing the trenches and adding explosive speed to the offense. Following the selection of eight new players, these six veterans face the most immediate impact on their roles or roster security. OL Trevor Penning After being acquired via trade last season and appearing in seven games with four starts, Penning re-signed to a one-year deal.
Previously slated as the starting left guard, Penning will now be in a competition for the job after the team drafted Jake Slaughter in the second round. OT Trey Pipkins Ahead of the draft, Pipkins was seen as the frontrunner to be the team's swing tackle. But now, he will be fighting for that spot this summer after the Chargers took Travis Burke in the fourth round.
Burke, the 6-foot-9 and 325-pound offensive tackle, has a lot of upside. EDGE Bud Dupree The Chargers selected Akheem Mesidor with their first-round pick. Mesidor will serve as the third edge rusher behind Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu.
But now, the rotational spot on the depth chart is up in the air, with Dupree potentially being on the outside looking in. He must now fight sophomore Kyle Kennard for the spot. Kennard has the slight edge because he offers more special teams value.