The LA Chargers have officially completed their preseason side mission and next up is the 2024 regular season. Jim Harbaugh’s first official game back in the NFL will be on September 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders as the Chargers look to return to the postseason.

Before that, the Chargers face the difficult task of trimming the roster down to 53 players. There are several deserving players fighting for the same spot on the roster, as there are only a limited number of spots available. Of course, some talented players will be left out.

However, not all NFL rosters are the same, so while there are strengths, there are also weaknesses. In a perfect world, the Chargers can address these areas through further roster cuts across the league.

1. Quarterback

This is the most obvious position on this list. The Chargers’ backup quarterbacks really struggled during the preseason and while Justin Herbert seems to be over the hill with his foot injury, it’s still important to invest in the backup quarterback position if you have playoff aspirations.

Easton Stick will likely be added to the 53-man roster as the Chargers look around the league for quarterbacks who aren’t making it to their respective teams. Given Stick’s poor performance, the hurdle for the Chargers to bring in a better backup player isn’t too high.

Stick will most likely remain on the practice squad as he has a close relationship with Herbert. But at this rate, it would be truly shocking if the Bolts not Add quarterback help.

2. Tight End

Tight end was a weakness for the Chargers last season, was a weakness early in the offseason, and is still a weakness early in the season. Granted, the team has improved blocking by signing a true blocking tight end in Will Dissly, but the depth behind him is concerning.

Hayden Hurst is a familiar name who has struggled with injury issues in the past and averaged 23.4 yards per game over the last three seasons. Donald Parham is a fan favorite but has struggled with blocking and hasn’t had a strong preseason.

No other tight end on the roster has reached out for the brass ring, leaving the Chargers with more questions than answers at tight end. If a better option presents itself after cut day, the Chargers will have to take it.

3. Linebackers

This is solely due to the uncertainty surrounding Nick Niemann’s health before the start of the regular season. The top linebacker position looks very promising, with Denzel Perryman, Daiyan Henley and Junior Colson expected to form a formidable trio for the Bolts.

Troy Dye is a solid special teams player and Niemann is projected to be the fifth linebacker. However, Niemann has not practiced since his injury. The Chargers have been pretty tight-lipped about his status, so it’s unclear how serious the injury is.

With no other truly outstanding options internally, it would be wise for the Chargers to look across the league for someone who can step in and be a solid special teams player if Niemann has to go on the injured list due to injury.