“Rashawn is a great player, and he helps us win football games, so I’d love Rashan to be around for a long time,” Hortiz said while sticking to the fact sheet. Slater is entering the fifth-year option season of his contract and, while we haven’t posted about it, his extension has been a primary point of interest for Chargers beat writers for some time now. Getting Slater to reduce his $19.04 million cap figure before free agency could help Los Angeles land another player or two, perhaps incentivizing them to sign this sooner rather than later. Slater had a 90.9 PFF blocking grade last year, which was second amongst all tackles.

Slater was not on the Chargers’ injury report but reportedly felt discomfort in his knee before the game. With only slight variations in their playoff seeding to play for, LA did the responsible thing and gave him the day off.

Foster Sarell replaced Slater, who was seen working out on the sidelined with the training staff. It is unclear if Slater exited due to his preexisting pectoral injury.

Chargers RT Joe Alt (knee) is also listed as questionable, leaving the Chargers’ offensive line in a tough position heading into this divisional game. Backup T Trey Pipkins III (foot) will play through his injury after practicing in full Friday.