Chargers finalize initial 53-man roster including rookies Shelley and Spomer

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 3:14 AM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Chargers finalize initial 53-man roster including rookies Shelley and Spomer
Summary

The Chargers set their initial 53-man roster on Sunday, opting to keep quarterback Trey Lance as the primary backup. Despite strong preseason performances from other candidates, including DJ Uiagalelei, the team chose to stick with Lance due to his familiarity with the offensive system. The roster shuffle included the release of veteran punter JK Scott and running back Jaret Patterson. Undrafted rookies Rodney Shelley and Jacob Spomer secured spots on the squad, with Shelley earning a role after the team traded cornerback Avery Smith to the Seattle Seahawks. The front office also traded defensive lineman TeRah Ewards to the Carolina Panthers. Coach Jim Harbaugh noted that waived players could still find opportunities within the organization via the practice squad as the team moves forward with its current personnel.

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Status Watch
  • Trey Lance remains the backup quarterback behind the starter.
  • Undrafted rookies Rodney Shelley and Jacob Spomer made the initial 53-man roster.
  • Veteran punter JK Scott and running back Jaret Patterson were released.
  • The Chargers traded cornerback Avery Smith and defensive lineman TeRah Ewards for future draft picks.
  • Injured players Branson Taylor and Scott Matlock were placed on the reserve list.
Latest Updates
  • 3:14 AMYahoo SportsChargers stick with Trey Lance and two undrafted rookies on initial 53-man roster
What they're saying
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Undrafted rookies Rodney Shelley and Jacob Spomer earned spots on the Chargers' initial 53-man roster, which doesn't include punter JK Scott.

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