Eric Smith
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Husband, #GirlDad x2, dog dad. @chargers Editorial Director. Formerly w/ @vikings. Proud @Cronkite_ASU alum. "Decide what to be and go be it."
Articles by Eric Smith
Chargers Training Camp Report: Mack, Tuipulotu Wreck Havoc on Day 9
The Bolts were back at it Saturday, as Chargers 2026 Training Camp resumed with a 90-minute practice in full pads. The Chargers will practice at 10 a.m. at The Bolt for the next three days ahead of Thursday's preseason opener in Houston. Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, by the way, outlined the plan for Chargers starters in the preseason on Saturday morning. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Saturday's practice: 1.
Will the Chargers Starters Play in the Preseason?
It's essentially game week for the Chargers, who open up preseason play Thursday night in Houston. Will the Bolts starters see the field against the Texans? Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh on Saturday morning outlined the plan for the entire preseason for certain starters. "We have a plan. Veterans, starters, not an exact 11, more like 15 that will warm up for the game [in Houston] and then not play," Harbaugh said. "Then about 27 or so will play in the first preseason game.
5 Takeaways: What We Learned From Week 2 of Chargers Training Camp
Week 2 of Chargers Training Camp is in the rearview mirror. And that means an uptick in physicality and intensity as the Chargers have now practiced in full pads. The Bolts are off on Friday but will return to work Saturday for four straight practices before traveling to Houston for their first preseason game. Here is what we've learned from the second week of Chargers training camp: 1. How does Chris O'Leary's defense look? The Chargers have worn pads twice through the first eight practices.
Why Daniel Jeremiah 'Absolutely' Believes Chargers Can Win AFC West in 2026
Daniel Jeremiah is as knowledgeable about the NFL as anyone across the league. So, when the NFL Network analyst says the Chargers can "absolutely" win the AFC West in 2026, your ears perk up. "I think it's wide open," said Jeremiah, who is also the Chargers radio analyst. "There are three teams that have a legit chance to, to win this division. "Roster-wise, you can put this Chargers team up against the Broncos, and those have been really good and competitive games," Jeremiah added.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Intensity Picks Up in Full Pads
That's a wrap on Day 8 of Chargers 2026 Training Camp. The Chargers held a 90-plus minute practice at The Bolt on Thursday, going in full pads for the first time in camp. Chargers Defensive Coordinator Chris O'Leary noted it's time to "find out who's who" at this point in camp. The Bolts have an off day on Friday before getting back to work Saturday in preparation for Thursday's preseason opener in Houston. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Thursday's practice: 1.
Why Mike McDaniel Didn't Mind Justin Herbert's Interception at Chargers Training Camp
Justin Herbert threw an interception in Tuesday's practice, with safety Kendall Williamson outmuscling wide receiver Tre' Harris for a takeaway in the middle of the field. It was the first interception in camp for the Bolts quarterback, and Chargers Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel loved it. Yes, you read that correctly. Since arriving in Southern California, McDaniel has implored Herbert to play and think outside of the comfort zone that has made him one of the league's best quarterbacks.
Chargers Training Camp Report: How Mike McDaniel Views Left Guard Battle
Day 7 of Chargers 2026 Training Camp is done after the Bolts held their second and final practice in San Diego. Wednesday's session was a lighter one as the Chargers were not in pads and went at a jog-through pace. The Chargers will practice Thursday at 10 a.m. at The Bolt before an off day on Friday. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Wednesday's practice: 1. Branson Taylor works at left guard It was Branson Taylor's turn to take reps at left guard in front of Justin Herbert.
The Shepherds Who Feed Themselves
By David W. Virtue, DD I www.virtueonline.org I August 4, 2026 Across a dozen dioceses, The Episcopal Church has perfected the art of protecting its bishops and abandoning the abused. A single watchdog is doing the work the shepherds will not The Episcopal Church likes to present itself to the world as the safest room in American Christianity — inclusive, enlightened, trauma-informed, ahead of every curve. For a season the boast had substance.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Defense Dominates on 1st Day in Pads
Tuesday was a pivotal day of Chargers 2026 Training Camp. For one, the Bolts are down in San Diego for two days of practice. The Chargers also put on the pads for the first time, practicing in helmets and shoulder pads for 90-plus minutes. "It's part of the process," said Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh. "Feels good for players to have the armor on. It's an important step we're making today." "Ramp up, it's the word we used. Used that analogy, it's like getting on the highway," Harbaugh continued.
Chargers Training Camp Report: UDFAs Avery Smith & Rodney Shelley Shine on Day 5
The Bolts were back at it Monday on Day 5 of Chargers 2026 Training Camp. The Chargers, who were off Sunday, held a roughly 90-minute practice without pads at The Bolt. The Chargers will practice Tuesday and Wednesday in San Diego, with Tuesday's session being the first on in full pads. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Monday's practice: 1.
5 Takeaways: What We Learned From Week 1 of Chargers Training Camp
The first week of Chargers Training Camp is complete, meaning the Bolts have earned a well-deserved day off. The Chargers have held four practices, none in pads, and will return to work Monday before practicing Tuesday and Wednesday in San Diego. Here is what we've learned from the first week of Chargers training camp: 1. Why is optimism so high? Jim Harbaugh didn't mince words on Day 1 of camp, saying the Bolts are "more than capable" of accomplishing their ultimate goals.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Dicker Comes Up Clutch, Young Defensive Backs Shine on Day 4
The first break of Chargers 2026 Training Camp is nearly here. The Bolts held their fourth practice of camp Saturday morning by by working for nearly 90 minutes with no pads in what Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh called a "medium high" intensity. The Chargers have an off day on Sunday before Monday's 10 a.m. practice at The Bolt. The Chargers will then head to San Diego for practice on Tuesday and Wednesday. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Saturday's practice: 1.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Left Guard Rotation Continues on Lighter Day 3 Practice
Day 3 of Chargers 2026 Training Camp is done after the Bolts held their third practice of camp by working for 90 minutes with no pads. The Chargers will practice Saturday at 10 a.m. before an off day on Sunday. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Friday's practice: 1. Trey Pipkins joins left guard rotation Back in June, Jim Harbaugh was asked which players were candidates for the starting left guard spot.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Justin Herbert Deals on Day 2
Day 2 of Chargers 2026 Training Camp is complete. The Bolts held their second practice of camp by going for almost 90 minutes with no pads at The Bolt. The Chargers will practice for the next two days, all without pads, before an off day Sunday. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Thursday's practice: 1. Justin Herbert airs it out Justin Herbert let it loose on Thursday.
Chargers Mourn the Passing of Former Linebacker Billy Ray Smith
The Chargers are mourning the passing of Billy Ray Smith, a former linebacker who passed away on Wednesday. Smith, who spent all 10 of his NFL seasons with the Chargers, was 64 years old. "To know Billy Ray was to love Billy Ray. Yes, he was a member of our 50th Anniversary team. Yes, he was a Charger for life, playing his entire 10-year career here," said Dean Spanos, the Chargers Owner and Chairman of the Board. "But he wasn't merely a great football player. He was, truly, larger than life.
5 Takeaways: Why the Chargers are Embracing High Expectations as Training Camp Begins
The 2026 version of Chargers Training Camp is off and rolling. The Bolts held their first practice Wednesday, with the defense and some rookies turning some early heads. Away from the field, Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, quarterback Justin Herbert and safety Derwin James took to the podium. Here are five takeaways from their media sessions: 1. What are Chargers 2026 expectations? All 32 NFL teams have reported for training camp, meaning optimism reigns supreme across the league.
Chargers Training Camp Report: Defense, Rookies Turn Heads on Day 1
The Bolts kicked off year 3 of the Jim Harbaugh Era on Wednesday with a 75-minute, non-padded practice at The Bolt. The Chargers will practice for the next three days, all without pads, before an off day Sunday. Here is the Chargers Training Camp Report from Wednesday's practice: 1. O'Leary's group shines early Chris O'Leary's defense made quite the impression on Day 1. O'Leary is in his first season as the Chargers Defensive Coordinator after holding the same role in 2025 at Western Michigan.
Chargers Official Site | Los Angeles Chargers - chargers.com
Chargers.com will provide daily updates to this page over the next few weeks with practice observations, key storylines and everything else you need to know leading up to the regular season. It's that time of year. Chargers veterans reported for training camp at The Bolt on Tuesday in preparation for Wednesday's first practice. Quarterbacks, rookies and other select players arrived last week.
Chargers Announce Super Chargers Navy Uniform Games For 2026 Season
The best uniforms in the NFL are back. The Chargers on Tuesday announced that they will wear their all-navy *Super Chargers* uniforms for three home games during the 2026 regular season. The Bolts will first don the uniforms in Week 9 when they host the Texans. The Chargers also wore the Super Chargers uniforms against Houston last season. The all-navy uniforms will return in primetime for a Week 12 matchup with the Patriots on Sunday Night Football in a postseason rematch from a season ago.
5 Key Chargers Storylines Ahead of 2026 Training Camp
The 2026 edition of Chargers Training Camp is here. The Bolts are reporting for camp Tuesday and will hold their first practice on Wednesday. While the first five practices are not in pads, we'll soon start finding out more about the Chargers ahead of Year 3 under Jim Harbaugh. With that in mind, here are five key storylines for the Bolts ahead of training camp.
5 Position Battles to Watch at Chargers 2026 Training Camp
Jim Harbaugh's squad is a day away from reporting for 2026 Chargers Training Camp. That means crucial practices are on the way as the Bolts prepare for preseason and the regular season. We'll also soon get a glimpse at key battles as players vie for roles and a place on the 53-man roster. With that in mind, here are five Chargers position battles to watch during camp.
Chargers to Wear Gold Charger Power Alternate Jerseys at Buccaneers in Week 13
Grab your disco ball and break out the bell bottoms because the Chargers and Buccaneers are going retro when they meet up in Week 13. The Bolts announced Wednesday that they will wear their gold Charger Power alternate jerseys — and white pants — in Tampa Bay for the December 6 clash. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, will wear their all-white Creamsicle alternate uniforms in what could be the best uniform matchup of the entire NFL season.
Chargers Official Site | Los Angeles Chargers - chargers.com
The Bolts will hold more than a dozen open practices at The Bolt and will also practice twice at the University of San Diego in early August. What are the top storylines and position battles to watch later this month? Chargers.com will take a look at each position group leading up to training camp. The edge rusher group is up next.
Why ESPN's Ben Solak Can't Wait to See Omarion Hampton Paired With Mike McDaniel
The NFL world can't wait to see how Mike McDaniel helps elevate Justin Herbert's game in their first season together. But ESPN NFL analyst Ben Solak has another pairing in mind when it comes to high-end potential with the new Chargers Offensive Cooridnator. Solak recently looked at eight new coach-player pairings around the league that he's excited for, with the duo of McDaniel and Omarion Hampton making his list.
Chargers 2026 Training Camp Preview: How Ladd McConkey Can Bounce Back in Mike McDaniel's Scheme
The Bolts will hold more than a dozen open practices at The Bolt and will also practice twice at the University of San Diego in early August. What are the top storylines and position battles to watch later this month? Chargers.com will take a look at each position group leading up to training camp. Up next? The wide receivers.
Why Charlie Kolar Could Be Breakout Player For Chargers Offense in 2026
The Chargers offense features plenty of fresh faces whether it's new Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel or some new pieces along the interior of the offensive line. But Chargers General Manager Joe Hortiz also retooled the Bolts tight end room this offseason by bringing in David Njoku and Charlie Kolar in free agency to team up with Oronde Gadsden.
Who is Chargers Most Important Newcomer Ahead of 2026 Season?
The Chargers had a busy offseason by signing a plethora of free agents before adding eight more players in the 2026 NFL Draft. But which newcomer within the organization is the most important heading into the regular season? That was the question recently posed by The Athletic, with Chargers writer Daniel Popper opting to go with a new coach for his answer.
Chargers Honor the Life of Texans Co-Founder and Senior Chair Janice S. McNair
The Chargers are honoring the life of Texans Co-Founder and Senior Chair Janice S. McNair, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 89. "Janice was an extraordinary woman and a true force for good," said Dean Spanos, the Chargers Owner and Chairman of the Board. "As a breast cancer survivor like Susie (Spanos), her advocacy for medical research and work in that space always stood out to us.
Chargers 2026 Training Camp Preview: Why Oronde Gadsden Could Be Breakout Star
The Bolts will hold more than a dozen open practices at The Bolt and will also practice twice at the University of San Diego in early August. What are the top storylines and position battles to watch later this month? Chargers.com will take a look at each position group leading up to training camp. Up next? The tight end group. Oronde Gadsden, Charlie Kolar, David Njoku, Jerand Bradley, Johnny Pascuzzi and Evan Svoboda The Chargers made a clear effort to revamp their tight end room in the offseason.
Which Chargers Players Made Pro Football Network's Top 100 Players List?
There's no doubt the Chargers have some of the most talented players in the NFL. With training camp just around the corner and the Bolts regular-season opener now less than two months away, Pro Football Network decided to highlight some of the league's best players — and the Chargers were well represented. PFN recently compiled their annual Top 100 list and had four Chargers on the list while taking into account stats, team role and other factors.
Justin Herbert Lands on ESPN's Annual Best Quarterback Rankings
Justin Herbert has once again landed on ESPN's list of best NFL quarterbacks. The Chargers star was recently ranked at No. 7 in the outlet's annual rankings, which is made up of votes from league executives, coaches and scouts. More than 70 voters were called upon for the list, which is in its seventh year and was compiled by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. Here is what the panel noted about Herbert: He's an immense talent who recorded historic numbers in his early years.
Joe Alt Ranked in Top 10 of ESPN's Best Offensive Tackles
The Chargers struck gold when they took Joe Alt with the No. 5 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Because as the offensive tackle gets ready for Year 3 in the league, he's already among the best players at his position across the NFL. Alt was recently tabbed at No. 9 in ESPN's offensive tackle rankings, which is made up of votes from league executives, coaches and scouts. More than 70 voters were called upon in the annual rankings, which is in its seventh year and was compiled by ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
Chargers 2026 Training Camp Preview: Why Omarion Hampton Could Have Special Season in Year 2
The Bolts will hold more than a dozen open practices at The Bolt and will also practice twice at the University of San Diego in early August. What are the top storylines and position battles to watch later this month? Chargers.com will take a look at each position group leading up to training camp. The running backs are up next.
Important 2026-27 NFL Dates for the Chargers
The 2026 season is almost here. Here are key dates to keep an eye on for the Chargers during the coming months, including for the 2027 offseason. July 15 - At 1 p.m. (PT), deadline for any club that designated a Franchise Player to sign such player to a multi-year contract or extension. After this date, the player may sign only a one-year contract with his prior club for the 2026 season, and such contract cannot be extended until after the club's last regular season game.
Chargers 2026 Training Camp Preview: How Justin Herbert Can Thrive Under Mike McDaniel
The Bolts will hold 15 open practices at The Bolt and will also practice twice at the University of San Diego in early August. What are the top storylines and position battles to watch later this month? Chargers.com will take a look at each position group leading up to training camp, beginning with the quarterbacks.
How the Chargers Earned ESPN's Top Grades for 2026 Offseason Moves
The clock is ticking on the 2026 NFL offseason. Jim Harbaugh's squad will report to Chargers Training Camp on July 28 and hold their first practice a day later, a clear sign that the 2026 regular season is rapidly approaching.
Why the Chargers Can Capture the AFC West Title in 2026
The Chargers have won 11 games in back-to-back seasons, which has been good enough for consecutive second place finishes in the AFC West. Could a division title be in reach for Jim Harbaugh's team in the 2026 season? Kevin Patra of NFL.com recently outlined the case for why the Bolts could capture the AFC West this season, which would be the Chargers first division crown since 2009. Patra, of course, began with the hiring of Chargers Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel.
WM-Aus als Aufbruch: Kanada, das "Fußballland"
Während der WM-Spiele werden auf den Bildschirmen immer wieder die berühmten Fans der Teams im Stadion eingeblendet. Bei den Engländern schaute beispielsweise David Beckham zu, bei Brasilien Ronaldo. Beim letzten Auftritt der Kanadier war dagegen auf der Ehrentribüne der Arena von Houston Wayne Gretzky zu sehen - die Eishockey-Ikone. Berühmte ehemalige Fußballstars muss der Mitgastgeber erst noch aufbauen.
WM-Aus als Aufbruch: Kanada, das "Fußballland"
Das Heimturnier ist für Kanada vorbei. Das Land, das vor allem verrückt nach Eishockey ist, präsentiert sich als stolzer Mitgastgeber. Die Nationalspieler hoffen auf einen besonderen WM-Effekt. Houston. Während der WM-Spiele werden auf den Bildschirmen immer wieder die berühmten Fans der Teams im Stadion eingeblendet. Bei den Engländern schaute beispielsweise David Beckham zu, bei Brasilien Ronaldo.
Mitfavorit Marokko im WM-Viertelfinale - Kanada "am Boden"
Azzedine Ounahi (r.) traf zur Führung. In Houston wurde der "Independence Day" gefeiert. Bayern-Neuzugang Ismael Saibari musste verletzungsbedingt ausgewechselt werden. Azzedine Ounahi (r.) traf zur Führung. In Houston wurde der "Independence Day" gefeiert. Bayern-Neuzugang Ismael Saibari musste verletzungsbedingt ausgewechselt werden. Freie Presse auf Google News folgen Das erste Achtelfinale der WM ist eine Halbzeit lang ziemlich langweilig. Aufregend wird es nur bei Gelben Karten.
Mitfavorit Marokko im WM-Viertelfinale - Kanada "am Boden"
Als die Marokkaner um Doppeltorschütze Azzedine Ounahi nach dem Viertelfinal-Einzug ausgelassen in einer großen Jubeltraube tanzten, trottete Bayern-Star Alphonso Davies nach dem WM-Aus seiner Kanadier traurig über den Rasen. Der Afrika-Meister hat den Co-Gastgeber aus dem Turnier geworfen und schaffte es als erstes Team unter die besten acht Mannschaften der Fußball-WM. Die Auswahl von Nationaltrainer Mohamed Ouahbi hatte beim 3:0 (0:0) in Houston allerdings mehr Mühe als erwartet.
Mitfavorit Marokko im WM-Viertelfinale - Kanada raus
1/3 Azzedine Ounahi (r.) traf zur Führung. Bild: David J. Phillip/AP/dpa 2/3 In Houston wurde der "Independence Day" gefeiert. Bild: Eric Smith/AP/dpa 3/3 Ismael Saibari musste verletzungsbedingt ausgewechselt werden. Bild: Eric Gay/AP/dpa Houston Marokko hat Co-Gastgeber Kanada aus dem Turnier geworfen und steht als erstes Team im Viertelfinale der Fußball-WM. Die Auswahl von Nationaltrainer Mohamed Ouahbi hatte beim 3:0 (0:0) in Houston allerdings mehr Mühe als erwartet.
Mitfavorit Marokko im WM-Viertelfinale - Kanada raus
Azzedine Ounahi (r.) traf zur Führung. In Houston wurde der "Independence Day" gefeiert. Ismael Saibari musste verletzungsbedingt ausgewechselt werden. Azzedine Ounahi (r.) traf zur Führung. In Houston wurde der "Independence Day" gefeiert. Ismael Saibari musste verletzungsbedingt ausgewechselt werden. Freie Presse auf Google News folgen Das erste Achtelfinale der WM ist eine Halbzeit lang ziemlich langweilig. Aufregend wird es nur bei Gelben Karten. Dann aber wacht Marokko auf.
Why Justin Herbert & Rashawn Slater are Among Top Storylines Ahead of Chargers Training Camp
Welcome back to the Chargers Mailbag! We'll run a Mailbag each month during the offseason. Send in submissions for the Mailbag on Twitter @EricLSmith or by email at eric.smith@chargers.nfl.com. Off we go... What's the biggest little thing that's gonna take Justin Herbert to the next level? (Lindsey via Twitter) A fun question to start us off, especially as the pairing of Justin Herbert and Mike McDaniel has dominated the offseason chatter at The Bolt and among fans.
Who's a Rookie to Watch at 2026 Chargers Training Camp?
The NFL calendar has reached some down time as players, coaches and staff get some well-deserved time off before training camps kick off next month. Chargers 2026 Training Camp opens with practice on July 29 ahead of padded practices and three preseason games. ESPN recently put together an AFC West roundtable looking at pressing questions surrounding each team, with Chargers reporter Kris Rhim tackling the ones pertaining to the Bolts.
Brasilien entgeht WM-Schmach: Last-Minute-Sieg gegen Japan
Freie Presse auf Google News folgen Rekordweltmeister Brasilien tut sich in seinem ersten K.-o.-Spiel schwer. Gegen Japan muss die Seleção einen Rückstand verkraften. Gabriel Martinelli erlöst die Brasilianer spät. Houston. Brasiliens Matchwinner Gabriel Martinelli sank kurz auf den Rasen, dann fielen sich die Spieler der Seleção erleichtert in die Arme. Der Rekordweltmeister hat ein schmachvolles Aus schon in der ersten K.-o.-Runde dieser Fußball-WM gerade noch abgewendet. Der in der 66.
Brasilien entgeht WM-Schmach: Last-Minute-Sieg gegen Japan
Freie Presse auf Google News folgen Rekordweltmeister Brasilien tut sich in seinem ersten K.-o.-Spiel schwer. Gegen Japan muss die Seleção einen Rückstand verkraften. Gabriel Martinelli erlöst die Brasilianer spät. Houston. Gabriel Martinelli hat Rekordweltmeister Brasilien vor dem schmachvollen Aus schon in der ersten K.-o.-Runde dieser Fußball-WM bewahrt. Der 25-Jährige traf im Sechzehntelfinale gegen Deutschland-Schreck Japan in der fünften Minute der Nachspielzeit zum 2:1 (0:1)-Endstand.
FBI prüft Drohung gegen WM-Partie in Houston
Brasilien und Japan bestreiten in Houston ihr Sechzehntelfinale. Brasilien und Japan bestreiten in Houston ihr Sechzehntelfinale. Freie Presse auf Google News folgen Brasilien und Japan spielen in Houston um das WM-Achtelfinalticket. Rund um die Partie macht das FBI eine Drohung gegen das Stadion publik. Houston. Die US-Bundespolizei FBI prüft während des WM-Sechzehntelfinals in Houston nach eigenen Angaben eine "im Internet kursierende Drohung" gegen die Arena.
FBI prüft Drohung gegen WM-Partie in Houston
Brasilien und Japan bestreiten in Houston ihr Sechzehntelfinale. Bild: Eric Smith/FR171023 AP/AP/dpa Houston Die US-Bundespolizei FBI prüft während des WM-Sechzehntelfinals in Houston nach eigenen Angaben eine "im Internet kursierende Drohung" gegen die Arena. Brasilien und Japan bestreiten in dem Stadion ihr erstes K.-o-Runden-Spiel. "Zum jetzigen Zeitpunkt gibt es keine Anhaltspunkte für die Glaubwürdigkeit der Drohung", heißt es in einer FBI-Mitteilung, aus der mehrere US-Medien zitieren.
5 Chargers Players Who Stood Out in 2026 Offseason Program
The first practice of Chargers 2026 Training Camp is officially a month away. Before we get there, however, let's take one more quick look back at who shined this offseason. Here are five players who stood out in spring practices: 1. Genesis Smith Perhaps it was an interception here or a pass breakup there. But rookie Genesis Smith surely flashed this spring as he seemingly made a play every day in the secondary.
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