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Chargers, 49ers plan to feature starters in Thursday's preseason games

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 9:00 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Chargers, 49ers plan to feature starters in Thursday's preseason games

Summary

The NFL preseason continues with two notable matchups on Thursday evening. The Los Angeles Chargers will face the San Francisco 49ers at 10 p.m. ET, while the Houston Texans take on the Las Vegas Raiders at 8 p.m. ET. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that starters, including quarterback Justin Herbert, will play for one series against the 49ers. San Francisco's coach Kyle Shanahan indicated that several starters will see action this week, including quarterback Brock Purdy. However, Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans announced that his starters might not play against the Raiders due to a change of plans after joint practices.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Chargers to play starters, including Justin Herbert, for one series.
•49ers expect several starters, including Brock Purdy, to participate.
•Texans may hold out starters after previous joint practices.
•Games scheduled for Thursday night at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. ET.

Latest Updates

9:00 PMYahoo Sports — Which NFL Teams Are Playing Their Starters in Thursday’s Preseason Games? Chargers, 49ers Among Squads to Watch

What they're saying

"
The first week of the preseason is officially in the books, and fans are starting to get a taste of NFL action. With a number of teams giving some reps to their starters, fans saw some intense action at various points throughout the week.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Houston Texans Las Vegas Raiders Los Angeles Chargers San Francisco 49ers Tennessee Titans NFL Football