Here’s how the Chargers’ rookies might contribute this season

How these rookies might be contributing this season:

JERRY TILLERY: Long, tall and athletic defensive lineman who should get plenty of time in the team’s rotation up front. Offseason shoulder surgery slowed start to the preseason, but the first-round pick appears to be healthy now.

NASIR ADDERLEY: Expected to compete for the starting job at free safety, the second-round pick missed much of August because of a hamstring issue that dates to spring. Returned to practice in final days of training camp.

TREY PIPKINS: Drafted in the third round as a raw prospect at left tackle, he showed flashes of ability but also struggled mightily at times in preseason. Chargers still like his potential, but he remains more of a project.

Sports

The Times’ 2019 NFL season preview

Previewing the 2019 NFL season as the league celebrates its 100th year and the Rams and Chargers look to contend for the Super Bowl LIV title.

Sept. 2, 2019

DRUE TRANQUILL: Described as being a “backyard” player by one of his teammates, the fourth-round pick will be an immediate contributor on special teams. Great instincts and understanding of schemes could lead to additional reps on defense.

EASTON STICK: Another longer-term project, the fifth-round pick had a predictably uneven training camp and preseason. Struggled trying to separate himself in battle to be the team’s third quarterback.

EMEKE EGBULE: Athletic, versatile linebacker at a position where the Chargers have depth. He received reps with the first team at times in training camp, mostly to gauge the sixth-rounder’s readiness for a real NFL game.

CORTEZ BROUGHTON: Defensive lineman who provides depth at a position filled with veterans and players with more potential. This figures to be more of a learning year for the seventh-round pick.