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Over the next few weeks ahead of training camp, I will continue to break down the depth chart for each Chargers position.
Quarterback
Running back
Wide receiver
Tight end
Offensive line
Defensive line
Edge rusher
Linebacker
Cornerback
Next, I project what the safety room will look like heading into the 2026 season.
James signed a massive three-year contract extension to secure his spot as the anchor of the Chargers' defense. Coming off a fantastic 2025 campaign where he earned Second-Team All-Pro honors, his elite coverage versatility will remain heavily featured across the back end and inside the slot under new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary.
After missing five games due to injury in 2025, a fully healthy Molden enters this summer ready to solidify his starting position. He will act as the counterpart to James, aiming to recapture his highly productive 2024 form when he recorded career highs in tackles (75), interceptions (3), and passes defended (7).
Jefferson is officially back for another year after agreeing to a one-year, $2 million contract. The 34-year-old veteran completely revitalized his career in 2025, playing 13 games, nabbing four interceptions, and posting the third-best passer rating allowed in coverage among all safeties (36.7).
Selected in the fourth round (No. 131 overall) of the 2026 NFL Draft out of Arizona, Smith brings true centerfield range and coverage skills to the positional room. Though he needs to work on his tackling consistency, his playmaking habits should allow him to push for early reps on defense.
Selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Mickens went on to carve a reliable rotational role when injuries occurred as well as the departure of Alohi Gilman halfway through the season. He recorded 18 tackles (14 solo) and a pair of interceptions. He will compete for the third safety spot alongside Jefferson and Smith.
Williamson carved out a role for himself in 2025 as a core special teamer, appearing in all 17 regular-season games. Though a late-season ankle injury sidelined him for the playoffs, the front office rewarded him with a contract extension through 2026. He faces a crowded room but his special teams prowess earns him a spot.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers safety depth chart: Who will make the 53-man roster?
Continue reading...
Quarterback
Running back
Wide receiver
Tight end
Offensive line
Defensive line
Edge rusher
Linebacker
Cornerback
Next, I project what the safety room will look like heading into the 2026 season.
Derwin James Jr.
James signed a massive three-year contract extension to secure his spot as the anchor of the Chargers' defense. Coming off a fantastic 2025 campaign where he earned Second-Team All-Pro honors, his elite coverage versatility will remain heavily featured across the back end and inside the slot under new defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary.
Elijah Molden
After missing five games due to injury in 2025, a fully healthy Molden enters this summer ready to solidify his starting position. He will act as the counterpart to James, aiming to recapture his highly productive 2024 form when he recorded career highs in tackles (75), interceptions (3), and passes defended (7).
Tony Jefferson
Jefferson is officially back for another year after agreeing to a one-year, $2 million contract. The 34-year-old veteran completely revitalized his career in 2025, playing 13 games, nabbing four interceptions, and posting the third-best passer rating allowed in coverage among all safeties (36.7).
Genesis Smith
Selected in the fourth round (No. 131 overall) of the 2026 NFL Draft out of Arizona, Smith brings true centerfield range and coverage skills to the positional room. Though he needs to work on his tackling consistency, his playmaking habits should allow him to push for early reps on defense.
R.J. Mickens
Selected in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Mickens went on to carve a reliable rotational role when injuries occurred as well as the departure of Alohi Gilman halfway through the season. He recorded 18 tackles (14 solo) and a pair of interceptions. He will compete for the third safety spot alongside Jefferson and Smith.
Kendall Williamson
Williamson carved out a role for himself in 2025 as a core special teamer, appearing in all 17 regular-season games. Though a late-season ankle injury sidelined him for the playoffs, the front office rewarded him with a contract extension through 2026. He faces a crowded room but his special teams prowess earns him a spot.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers safety depth chart: Who will make the 53-man roster?
Continue reading...
