Chargers take a U-turn with interesting move on safety after trades

The Los Angeles Chargers announced earlier on Sunday that veteran safety Tony Jefferson was released from the roster. However, hours later, the organization chose not to cut Jefferson, as he is not part of the 53-man roster.

Reports indicate that after trading away two defenders, the franchise decided to keep the 34-year-old on the team as a roster spot became available, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Jefferson will begin the 2026-27 season with the Chargers after all.

“Update: after trading away a defensive lineman and a cornerback in two separate trades today and having two additional roster spots, the Chargers pivoted and kept veteran safety Tony Jefferson on their 53-man roster,” Schefter reported.

Jefferson is entering his 12th year in the NFL, and his third with the Chargers. He played 13 games for the club last season (eight starts) and put up great numbers. The former undrafted free agent ended last year with 57 combined tackles (37 solo), seven pass deflections (career-high), and four interceptions (career-high).

Considering he was initially a cut candidate, expectations should be for Jefferson to play a backup role in L.A. RJ Mickens and Elijah Molden are in line to start in the two safety positions for the Chargers. Fourth-round rookie Genesis Smith should also make appearances in the secondary as a backup.

With the final roster set, Los Angeles will begin the new season with a Week 1 home opener against the Arizona Cardinals. The Chargers will enjoy two consecutive home games to begin the campaign, as they won’t play on the road until Week 3 against the Buffalo Bills.

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