Rashawn Slater is asking Chargers fans not to treat his latest knee issue like another emergency.

The Pro Bowl left tackle missed his fourth consecutive practice Tuesday after experiencing what he described today as a “little” flare-up in his surgically repaired left knee.

The discomfort surfaced last week after Slater left the Chargers’ first padded practice following the opening 11-on-11 period. Although he returned for a lighter workout the following day, he has not practiced since being limited Thursday.

“Nothing crazy,” Slater said, via ESPN’s Kris Rhim. “Nothing that’s concerning.”

Slater could not provide a timetable for his return but characterized the interruption as an expected part of recovering from a major injury.

The 27-year-old tore his left patellar tendon during training camp last year and missed the entire 2025 season. He was cleared for full participation before camp and said his knee felt stronger than it had in several years before the recent setback.

“Just being smart, being thoughtful,” Slater said. “Coming back from a major injury, I think the smartest thing is being cautious.”

The Chargers were not planning to play Slater in Thursday’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans. Their priority is having him ready for the Sept. 13 regular-season opener against the Arizona Cardinals.

Still, four consecutive absences without a defined return date will invite scrutiny.

Los Angeles rebuilt its offensive line after season-ending injuries to Slater and right tackle Joe Alt contributed to Justin Herbert being sacked a career-high 54 times. Trey Pipkins and Branson Taylor have received increased work at left tackle during Slater’s absence.

The Chargers can afford to exercise patience in August. Slater’s availability becomes considerably more important once September approaches.

For now, he insists the flare-up is part of the recovery process—not another season-altering setback.

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