Chargers Signed Tight End Hayden Rucci
The team added depth to its tight end room following multiple injuries.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Football
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The Los Angeles Chargers signed tight end Hayden Rucci from the Jacksonville Jaguars practice squad. The team made the move to bolster its roster after several players suffered injuries.
Why it matters
The Chargers were forced to adjust their lineup after multiple tight ends on the roster were sidelined with injuries. This move ensures the team maintains sufficient depth at the position.
The Los Angeles Chargers maintain a 53-player active roster limit. Rucci joins Oronde Gadsden as the only other healthy tight end currently available for the team.
The players
Hayden Rucci
He is a professional football player who entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024.
Los Angeles Chargers
The team is a professional American football franchise based in Los Angeles that competes in the NFL.
David Njoku
He is a professional tight end who was placed on the team's injured reserve list.
Charlie Kolar
He is a professional tight end who was placed on the team's injured reserve list.
Gary Jennings
He is a wide receiver who was released from the active roster to make space for the new signing.
The details
The Chargers placed tight ends David Njoku and Charlie Kolar on injured reserve following injuries sustained on September 20. To accommodate the new signing, the team released wide receiver Gary Jennings from the active roster.
Timeline
Hayden Rucci entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2024.
David Njoku and Charlie Kolar were injured on September 20, 2026.
The pair was placed on injured reserve on September 21, 2026.
The Chargers signed Hayden Rucci on September 22, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This roster move reflects the ongoing churn of the NFL season as teams manage personnel to navigate injury cycles. Maintaining depth is critical for sustaining competitive balance within the division as teams look toward the playoff picture.
With Rucci added, the Chargers now have two healthy tight ends available for the upcoming rotation. Fantasy owners and team observers should note that Rucci will likely see immediate availability for active roster participation.
The takeaway
Maintaining roster flexibility remains essential for teams managing late-week injury reports. Proactive front office management ensures that critical positional groups remain staffed during long seasons.
Further reading
For more on the current team roster, visit the Football section.
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