The Los Angeles Chargers are just beginning the slow rollout into training camp, and the first notable roster move has already hit the transaction report: rookie offensive tackle Isaiah World was placed on the non-football injury list.
For fans, it’s a frustrating update on a player who had quickly become a popular undrafted free-agent signing. It also fits the expectation that World would need time before getting fully involved, especially after the torn ACL he suffered in a CFP semifinal game.
World’s appeal was easy to understand. The Chargers spent the offseason looking for offensive line help after both Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt dealt with serious injuries last season, and World looked like the kind of developmental swing tackle worth betting on. At Oregon last year, he started 14 games at left tackle and finished as a finalist for the Joe Moore Award, which goes to the nation’s top offensive lineman.
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein described him this way: “His first contact, whether engaging run blocks or throwing his punch, is firm and purposeful,” NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein wrote. “Elements of his run blocking will translate to the league despite an elevated pad level but his pass protection is filled with holes and requires immediate attention. If he can cut back on quick losses, World has a chance to become an average swing tackle.”
The move doesn’t change the bigger picture all that much. The Chargers appear interested in keeping World around for the long haul and giving him a real chance to develop.
That matters because, for now, their proven depth behind the starters is thin. Trey Pipkins is the clear option at capable swing backup tackle, unless a player like Travis Burke makes a fast jump.
Alt and Slater have both been ahead of schedule at several points this offseason, and the Chargers would surely welcome the same kind of progress from World if he can get there.
Rookies begin reporting to camp this weekend, with the first practice set for July 29, one day after the veterans arrive. More roster movement like this should follow as the team gets closer to full camp.
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