Chargers to sit Justin Herbert, other starters all preseason

The players working to earn a spot on the Los Angeles Chargers roster will have more opportunities to show their stuff.

That’s because first-year head coach Brandon Staley said Thursday that at least eight players won’t see a snap in preseason games.

Sitting out all three games will be quarterback Justin Herbert, the 2020 Offensive Rookie of the Year, as well as former All-Pro safety Derwin James, running back Austin Ekeler, tight end Jared Cook, center Corey Linsley, right tackle Bryan Bulaga and defensive tackle Linval Joseph.

Staley was an assistant coach on the Los Angeles Rams staff of Sean McVay, who said recently that new quarterback Matthew Stafford will be on the sidelines for the preseason games

The Chargers open the preseason Saturday against the Rams at SoFi Stadium, which the two teams share. Washington Football Team will host the Chargers in the season opener on Sept. 12.