The Los Angeles Chargers announced Thursday that starting center Tyler Biadasz is out indefinitely after suffering a left knee injury during Tuesday’s joint practice with the San Francisco 49ers. The injury occurred when 49ers defensive tackle Sebastian Valdez fell on Biadasz’s left knee during an 11-on-11 drill. Biadasz was carted off the field, and subsequent medical evaluations confirmed damage to his ACL along with additional left knee injuries. He will meet with additional specialists to assess the full extent of the damage.
Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that Justin Herbert and other starting players will see limited action in Thursday’s preseason game against the 49ers. Herbert and the first-string unit will play the opening series before backups take over for the remainder of the contest. Harbaugh described the matchup as a “real dress rehearsal for Game 1,” emphasizing the importance of avoiding first snaps in the regular season being the starters’ first meaningful game action.
San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan indicated that a “number of starters,” including quarterback Brock Purdy, are expected to play in Thursday’s game. Shanahan noted that while not all starters will participate, multiple key players are likely to see action, with Purdy’s involvement described as a “good chance.” The 49ers did not play starters in their preseason opener against the Tennessee Titans last Thursday.
Injury Impact and Roster Moves
Biadasz’s absence adds to the Chargers’ offensive line concerns, following injuries to starting tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt last season. Biadasz, who signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Chargers this offseason, had previously played for the Dallas Cowboys and Washington Commanders. His 2025 season with Washington was cut short by knee and ankle injuries, which placed him on injured reserve before his release.
The Chargers will rely on backups Jake Slaughter, Josh Kaltenberger, or Jacob Spomer to fill the center position in the interim. Harbaugh did not rule out additional roster adjustments if the injury requires long-term placement on injured reserve.
Preseason Game Preview
Thursday’s matchup at 10 p.m. ET serves as the second preseason game for both teams. The Chargers’ preseason schedule concludes with a game against the Las Vegas Raiders on August 27. Harbaugh and Shanahan both framed the game as an opportunity to evaluate starters in game-like conditions while managing risk.
For the 49ers, the game represents another step in evaluating players returning from injury, including Purdy. Shanahan’s comments suggest a measured approach to player workload, balancing preparation with caution.
The Chargers’ offensive coordinator, Mike McDaniel, highlighted the importance of Herbert’s limited preseason action, stating that players benefit from regaining game rhythm after six months without competitive play. Herbert echoed this sentiment, calling the opportunity to play “an exciting opportunity” to prepare for the 2026 regular season.