Chargers Secure Victory Against Saints in Preseason Opener

Players compete fiercely during the Chargers vs Saints preseason matchup.

News Summary

The Los Angeles Chargers kicked off the 2025 NFL preseason with a 27-13 win over the New Orleans Saints. Undrafted rookie Eric Rogers made headlines with two interceptions and a 43-yard pick-six, but left the game with an injury. Quarterback Trey Lance also showed promise with his performance, while defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell added to the team’s success with a sack. The Chargers navigate injury concerns as they prepare for their next game against the Rams, while the Saints look to regroup against the Jaguars.

Los Angeles – The 2025 NFL preseason kicked off with excitement as the Los Angeles Chargers faced the New Orleans Saints, concluding with a solid 27-13 win for the Chargers. Undrafted rookie cornerback Eric Rogers from Rutgers stole the spotlight during the game, showcasing impressive skills that could shape his future with the team.

Rogers intercepted two passes against the Saints. His standout moment came in the third quarter when he returned a 43-yard pick-six, demonstrating not only his ability to read plays but also his speed and agility. The promising rookie further proved his worth by not allowing a single catch on five targets, earning what is expected to be one of the highest PFF coverage grades for a preseason game.

Despite his stellar performance, the game was not without concerns. Rogers left the field with an undisclosed lower-body injury and was later seen using crutches after the match. The severity of his condition remains uncertain, adding to the Chargers’ ongoing injury issues as they head deeper into the preseason.

The Chargers’ victory was highlighted by quarterback Trey Lance, who completed 7-of-14 passes for 55 yards and added 48 rushing yards with a touchdown. Lance’s performance marked a solid debut, though he continued to shake off rust as he adjusts to the Chargers’ offense.

In addition to Rogers, rookie defensive tackle Jamaree Caldwell made a significant mark during the game, sacking Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough and recording four tackles. Caldwell’s aggressive play contributed to the Chargers’ defensive success throughout the game.

As for the Saints, Shough had his first game experience, completing 15-of-22 passes for 165 yards, which included one touchdown and one interception. Meanwhile, fellow quarterback Spencer Rattler started and managed to complete 7-of-11 passes for 53 yards, averaging over three seconds in the pocket before releasing the ball.

The Chargers are facing a growing concern over injuries, having already lost star left tackle Rashawn Slater to a season-ending injury. This loss, coupled with Rogers’ situation, puts additional pressure on the team’s depth as they prepare for their upcoming games. The Chargers will be looking to build on their preseason momentum as they face the Los Angeles Rams next Saturday at 7 p.m. ET, hoping to continue their winning streak.

On the other hand, the Saints will be looking to regroup as they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday at 1 p.m. ET. As both teams navigate the challenges of the preseason, the performances seen in this matchup will be crucial in shaping their respective rosters moving forward.