Chargers vs. Saints: Trey Lance and KeAndre Lambert-Smith among five players to watch

Injury have hit the Chargers hard in training camp.

From minor setbacks sidelining Mekhi Becton and Ladd McConkey for multiple practices, to the severe, with Najee Harris ’ return date still a mystery and Rashawn Slater out for the season .

Out of an abundance of caution, coach Jim Harbaugh once again said veteran starters won’t play Sunday against the New Orleans Saints at SoFi Stadium.

For rookies such as KeAndre Lambert-Smith and Nikko Reed, it’s a chance to build on the promise they showed in last week’s preseason debuts.

It will be the first direct comparison between Taylor Heinicke and Trey Lance, who are in an unexpected backup quarterback battle.

And Trey Pipkins III will get much-needed reps at right tackle as the offensive line undergoes a reshuffle.

Battle at backu