RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesThe Chargers are less than a week away from the start of training camp.
The team is entering a crucial season, and a handful of players are under the spotlight to perform at a high level. One player who fits that description is edge rusher Tuli Tuipulotu.
Tuipulotu is entering the final year of his rookie deal. However, the two sides have yet to agree on an extension. With that being the case and with training camp on the horizon, Daniel Popper of The Athletic posed a fair question: Will Tuipulotu practice?
Popper said that is one of the biggest storylines heading into camp.
"Players can be fined if they do not report to training camp. As a workaround, players will report to camp but then sit out practices while they remain in negotiations. This is commonly referred to as a “hold-in.” Slater went this route last year. James did the same in 2022. Holding in is one of the only ways a player can exercise leverage during a negotiation. It is an option for Tuipulotu."
Prior to the summer break, Tuipulotu was asked whether a hold-in was possible . He simply answered, "Time will tell."
His absence would not be ideal, given the gravity of the situation and the Chargers' need for him to perform at a high level. For the most part, Tuipulotu and the Bolts have been engaged in contract extension talks.
In his first three seasons, Tuipulotu has improved each year, with the 2025 season his best yet.
The 2023 second-round pick is coming off his first Pro Bowl season, where he recorded 49 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 23 quarterback hits, 13 sacks and three passes defended.
The 23-year-old has a great chance to be even better in 2026, and with that could come a lucrative contract if he enters the season without an extension.
As the roster is constructed, the former USC Trojan has an opportunity to establish himself as the true No. 1 edge rusher. Khalil Mack is aging, and their other edge rusher is rookie Akheem Mesidor. Tuipulotu is in a great position to take his game and the defense to another level.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Will Tuli Tuipulotu practice at training camp? Insider raises question
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