Jake Slaughter of the Florida Gators participates in a drill during the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

Jake Slaughter was a three-year starter and two-time All-American for the Gators. Stacy Revere / Getty Images

April 24, 2026Updated 9:37 pm EDT

The Athletic has live coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Los Angeles Chargers selected Florida’s Jake Slaughter in the second round with the 63rd pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Slaughter, a three-year starter for the Gators and a two-time All-American, was a finalist for the 2025 Rimington Trophy, which goes to college football’s top center. He was announced by the Chargers as a guard at the draft.

‘The Beast’ breakdown

Slaughter ranked No. 89 in Dane Brugler’s top 300 big board. Here’s what Brugler had to say about him in his annual NFL Draft guide:

“Slaughter has a passion for football — and it shows in his on-field execution. He drives his feet in the run game to wall off lanes and keep defenders busy. In pass protection, he struggles to sink and adjust in space but has functional lateral movements and strains to finish base blocks. His ability to reset and stay attached combats longer, more powerful opponents.

“Slaughter doesn’t have overwhelming traits, but he consistently does his job using controlled movements, stout strength and veteran processing skills. With his makeup, he should compete for starting center snaps as a rookie.”

Come back later for more analysis of Slaughter. 

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Apr 25, 2026

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