Chargers struggle in preseason loss to 49ers as Jake Slaughter shines
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 5:24 AM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026

The Los Angeles Chargers fell to the San Francisco 49ers 41-17 in a preseason game at SoFi Stadium on August 20, 2026. Rookie center Jake Slaughter took center stage, filling in due to Tyler Biadasz's injury. Quarterback Trey Lance also showcased a strong performance, including a notable 37-yard scramble. Despite some standout moments, the Chargers faced multiple miscues, particularly in special teams and defense, leading to the substantial loss. Injury concerns emerged as rookie receiver Brenen Thompson and offensive lineman Branson Taylor left the game with injuries.
- •Jake Slaughter started at center, replacing the injured Tyler Biadasz.
- •Trey Lance completed 10 of 16 passes for 73 yards.
- •Chargers rookie Brenen Thompson exited with an injury in the first quarter.
- •The game featured significant struggles on special teams for the Chargers.
- •Los Angeles falls to 1-1 in the preseason.
- 5:24 AMYahoo Sports — Chargers vs. 49ers takeaways: Jake Slaughter takes the spotlight; defense struggles
"Jake Slaughter starts at center for the Chargers and Trey Lance shows his speed, but miscues on special teams and defense lead to a preseason loss to the 49ers.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 6:12 AMChargers throttled by 49ers in preseason game: Recap of LA's loss
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 6:11 AMWill this 49ers rookie class be the one? De'Zhaun Stribling, Kaelon Black shine against Chargers
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 5:46 AMRaiders Ride Running Game, Defeat Texans In 2nd Preseason Contest
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 5:42 AM49ers starter among Kyle Shanahan injury updates after win vs Chargers
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 5:30 AMRaiders rally late for a 22-20 preseason win over Texans
NFL•Aug 21, 2026, 5:28 AM49ers Bounce Back at SoFi: What We Learned from San Francisco’s Preseason Battle vs. Chargers
