Los Angeles Chargers Betting Odds

Last Updated on September 4, 2025 10:03 am by Allen

Team Overview

The Los Angeles Chargers enter 2025 with championship aspirations under second-year head coach Jim Harbaugh, but face a significant challenge after losing Pro Bowl left tackle Rashawn Slater to a season-ending patellar tendon injury. Despite this setback, the Chargers remain competitive in the AFC West with division odds of +300 to +340. The team’s strong defensive foundation and Justin Herbert’s continued development keep them in contention.

The Chargers had an impressive preseason, allowing just 18.3 points per game with standout defensive performances from both rookies and veterans. Their secondary, led by defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, showed significant improvement and depth throughout the preseason. However, the loss of Slater, who had just signed a four-year, $114 million extension making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history, significantly impacts their offensive outlook.

Offensive Line Analysis

The Chargers face their biggest challenge along the offensive line following Rashawn Slater’s devastating injury. Slater was among the NFL’s elite left tackles, ranking in the top 10 for run blocking and fourth in pass blocking in 2024. His absence forces the team to reshape their entire offensive line strategy.

Rookie Joe Alt, originally drafted to play right tackle, will likely move to the left side to protect Justin Herbert’s blind side. The remaining unit includes solid interior pieces, but the transition and loss of Slater’s elite play significantly downgrades what was expected to be a strong offensive line. The team’s run-heavy offensive philosophy under Harbaugh becomes more challenging to execute without their anchor at left tackle.

Defensive Line Analysis

Los Angeles boasts one of the NFL’s stronger defensive lines, anchored by edge rusher Khalil Mack and defensive tackle Derwin James Jr.’s versatility. The unit showed excellent depth during the preseason, with multiple players contributing across the defensive front. The addition of veteran pass rushers and young talent provides both immediate impact and future development.

The Chargers’ defensive line benefits from coordinator Jesse Minter’s aggressive scheme, which maximizes pressure while maintaining gap integrity against the run. Their ability to generate consistent pressure without blitzing allows the secondary to play tighter coverage, creating a synergistic effect throughout the defense. This defensive strength may need to carry more weight given the offensive line concerns.

2025 NFL Season

The Chargers open their 2025 season with a high-profile international game against the Kansas City Chiefs in São Paulo, Brazil, on Friday, September 5th at 8:00 PM ET. This marquee matchup will be broadcast on YouTube and represents an immediate test against their primary division rival. The Chiefs are favored by 3.5 points with a total of 46.5.

Playing the defending division champions without Slater presents an early season challenge that could set the tone for Los Angeles’ entire campaign. The international stage adds pressure but also provides an opportunity to make a statement if they can upset Kansas City. Herbert’s performance behind a reconfigured offensive line will be closely watched.

Odds to Win Division and Super Bowl

Despite the Slater injury, the Chargers maintain competitive division odds at +300 to +340, placing them third in the AFC West behind Kansas City and Denver. Their Super Bowl LX odds sit at +2500, reflecting both their potential and the significant obstacle posed by Slater’s absence. AFC Championship odds are +1300, indicating bookmakers view them as capable but face significant challenges.

The betting markets have adjusted to account for Slater’s injury, but the Chargers’ odds remain competitive based on their defensive strength and Herbert’s talent. Some analysts believe the team’s overall talent level can overcome the offensive line issues, particularly if Joe Alt develops quickly at left tackle.

Predictions

Projection models are mixed on the Chargers’ 2025 outlook, with estimates ranging from 8-9 wins due to the Slater injury to 11-12 wins based on their overall talent. The team’s floor appears to be around 8 wins, while their ceiling depends heavily on how quickly the offensive line adjusts and whether Herbert can continue his elite play despite increased pressure.

The Chargers’ success hinges on several factors: Joe Alt’s transition to left tackle, the defense maintaining its high level of play, and Herbert’s ability to elevate those around him. If the offensive line stabilizes and the defense continues its upward trajectory under Minter, Los Angeles could surprise and contend for the division title. However, the loss of Slater represents a significant hurdle in what was already expected to be a competitive AFC West.