In need of quarterback Justin Herbert’s blindside protector, the Chargers selected offensive tackle Rashawn Slater with the No. 13 overall pick.
The selection of Slater was adored by many, included myself, who had him as the No. 2 tackle in this year’s draft class.
“While many believe he should get kicked inside at the next level, Slater is technically sound and has the athleticism and smarts to overcome any measurement concerns, projecting as a top-notch blindside blocker,” I wrote.
Leading into the draft, there were rumblings that Slater was going to have to play guard due to his height and length not being to NFL standards. This all came after he dominated elite competition at the position at Northwestern
Los Angeles did not think so.
The team knew they were going to have him protect the edge all along, and his regular season as a professional against Washington showed why Slater was destined to be an NFL offensive tackle.
Chargers LT Rashawn Slater achieves the angle, uses upper body and grip strength to control and steer Chase Young away from making a play on the edge, creates the outside lane for Larry Rountree.
Nice block by Stephen Anderson to erase the LB, too. pic.twitter.com/DoLSjJLQz7
— Gavino Borquez (@GavinoBorquez) September 13, 2021
Drawing two tough matchups in edge defenders Chase Young and Montez Sweat, Slater’s play resembled one similar to a veteran Pro Bowler returning for his fourth season in this league.
Slater handled everything thrown his way, showing great technique with his upper and lower half, functional strength and agility to keep rushers at bay, as well as the athleticism to take advantage of positioning and angles to get the job done in the run blocking department.
On the afternoon, Slater did not allow a single pressure to arguably the stiffest competition that he will face this season.
There was a lot of hype surrounding Slater coming out of college, and it’s safe to say that the former Wildcat exceeded even the highest expectations in his debut in the professional ranks.