News Summary
In their 2025 NFL preseason opener, the Los Angeles Chargers defeated the New Orleans Saints 27-13, highlighted by undrafted rookie cornerback Eric Rogers’ stellar performance. Rogers intercepted two passes, returning one for a touchdown, while also showcasing impressive coverage. Despite his success, he suffered a lower-body injury that could impact his future games. Chargers quarterback Trey Lance contributed effectively, both in passing and rushing. The game raised concerns about the team’s ongoing injury issues, particularly after losing star left tackle Rashawn Slater. Upcoming matches will continue to test the Chargers’ roster adjustments.
Los Angeles Premieres As Chargers’ Undrafted Rookie Eric Rogers Excels with Two Interceptions in Preseason Opener
Los Angeles hosted the first game of the 2025 NFL preseason, featuring notable performances from rookies and established players alike. A standout was undrafted free agent cornerback Eric Rogers, who made an immediate impact for the Chargers by intercepting two passes against the New Orleans Saints, including a 43-yard interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Key Performance by Eric Rogers
Rogers, a rookie from Rutgers, showcased exceptional coverage skills, not allowing a single catch on five targets throughout the game. His impressive defensive display is expected to earn him one of the highest Pro Football Focus (PFF) coverage grades in this preseason. Despite his notable performance, Rogers sustained an undisclosed lower-body injury during the game and was seen on crutches afterward, raising concerns about his health moving forward.
Game Outcome and Highlights
The Chargers secured a 27-13 victory over the Saints, marking their second win in the preseason schedule. The team’s quarterback, Trey Lance, led the offense with a balanced performance, completing 7 of 14 passes for 55 yards. He also contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 48 yards and scoring a touchdown.
Defensively, rookie defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell made a notable impact, recording a sack of Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, along with four total tackles. Caldwell’s effort helped bolster the Chargers’ pass rush early in the season.
Performance of Quarterbacks
On the other side, the Saints’ new quarterback, Tyler Shough, made his debut, completing 15 of 22 passes for 165 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Another newcomer, Spencer Rattler, started for the Saints and finished with 7 completions in 11 attempts for 53 yards. Rattler faced significant pressure, averaging over three seconds to throw, indicating potential offensive line concerns.
Team Injuries and Concerns
The game highlighted the Chargers’ ongoing injury struggles, including the season-ending loss of star left tackle Rashawn Slater. The team remains cautious about player health as they prepare for upcoming contests, with injuries already impacting key positions.
Upcoming Preseason Fixtures
The Chargers’ next game will be against the Los Angeles Rams at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Saints are scheduled to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET, as both teams continue evaluating rosters and integrating new players ahead of the regular season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- CBS Sports
- Los Angeles Chargers Official Video Highlights
- NFL Highlights
- ESPN Game Recap
- Pro Football Focus Game Recap
- Wikipedia: National Football League
- Google Search: 2025 NFL preseason
- Google Scholar: Eric Rogers NFL
- Encyclopedia Britannica: National Football League
- Google News: Eric Rogers injury
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
