​The Los Angeles Chargers appear set at offensive tackle with the star tandem of Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater returning to play, but fourth-round rookie Travis Burke shouldn’t be overlooked heading into training camp.While Burke isn’t expected to compete for a starting job, the former Memphis standout has a realistic opportunity to earn a roster spot and establish himself as the team’s top swing tackle—a role that has become increasingly valuable in today’s league.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Bolts learned firsthand last season how quickly offensive line depth can be tested. Injuries forced multiple players into expanded roles, making reliable backup tackles a priority entering the offseason.Burke brings plenty of experience despite taking an unconventional path to the NFL. After beginning his collegiate career at Gardner-Webb and later transferring to Florida International, he finished at Memphis, where he put together the best season of his career.In 2025, Burke earned First-Team All-AAC honors while posting one of the nation’s better run-blocking seasons. According to Pro Football Focus, he finished with an 84.5 overall offensive grade and ranked among the top 10 offensive tackles nationally as a run blocker.That physical style aligns well with what Jim Harbaugh wants from his offensive line.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAt six-foot-nine and 325 pounds, Burke is an imposing presence who thrives when he’s able to play downhill. He consistently generates movement in the run game and plays through the whistle, traits that stand out on film.The biggest question surrounding Burke isn’t his strength—it’s his consistency in pass protection.His towering height creates natural leverage challenges, and quicker edge rushers have found success attacking his outside shoulder. Improving his footwork and recovery ability will likely determine how quickly he earns the coaching staff’s trust.Fortunately for Burke, he won’t be asked to carry that weight right away. With Alt and Slater entrenched as starters, Los Angeles can afford to develop the rookie at a comfortable pace while he continues to refine his technique. If Burke steadily progresses, he could eventually become one of the team’s most valuable reserves.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Bolts have consistently emphasized depth in the trenches under Harbaugh, and Burke fits that philosophy. Los Angeles invested in a player with intriguing physical tools, extensive college experience and the upside to become a dependable contributor.Training camp will give Burke his first opportunity to prove he belongs, and if he performs well against pro-level competition, the fourth-round pick could quickly become one of the more under-the-radar success stories from the Chargers’ 2026 draft class.