Chargers show promise in preseason loss to Rams, Uiagalelei impresses
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 30, 2026, 2:18 AM
Last updated Aug 30, 2026
The Los Angeles Chargers faced the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday at SoFi Stadium, ending in a 20-18 preseason loss. Justin Herbert and the starting offense showcased strong plays, including a 65-yard touchdown pass to Quentin Johnston. DJ Uiagalelei, competing for the backup quarterback role, completed 11 of 18 passes for 141 yards, outshining incumbent Trey Lance. Several rookies, including Rodney Shelley and Greg Desrosiers Jr., also made favorable impressions ahead of roster cuts. The team will finalize its 53-man roster by Sunday.
- •Chargers starters performed well despite a close loss to the Rams.
- •DJ Uiagalelei completed 11 of 18 passes, outplaying Trey Lance.
- •Rodney Shelley made five tackles and broke up a pass.
- •Greg Desrosiers rushed for 118 yards and a touchdown.
- •Chargers must finalize their 53-man roster by Sunday.
- 2:18 AMYahoo Sports — DJ Uiagalelei Has Earned the QB2 Spot
- 5:26 AMYahoo Sports — Chargers preseason takeaways: DJ Uiagalelei makes case to be Justin Herbert's backup
"DJ Uiagalelei has made a strong case to be Justin Herbert’s backup. After outperforming Trey Lance throughout the preseason, the second-year quarterback has shown better consistency and playmaking ability. The Chargers should reward him by making him QB2.
"Justin Herbert and the rest of the Chargers' starters look impressive in 20-18 preseason loss to the Rams, but DJ Uiagalelei made a strong case to be QB2.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 30, 2026, 2:18 AMDJ Uiagalelei Has Earned the QB2 Spot
DJ Uiagalelei has made a strong case to be Justin Herbert’s backup. After outperforming Trey Lance throughout the preseason, the second-year quarterback has shown better consistency and playmaking ability. The Chargers should reward him by making him QB2.
- Yahoo SportsAug 28, 2026, 5:26 AMChargers preseason takeaways: DJ Uiagalelei makes case to be Justin Herbert's backup
Justin Herbert and the rest of the Chargers' starters look impressive in 20-18 preseason loss to the Rams, but DJ Uiagalelei made a strong case to be QB2.
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