Bad news came swiftly for the University of Sioux Falls' most prominent NFL representative this week, as the Los Angeles Chargers placed offensive lineman Trey Pipkins III on injured reserve, casting serious doubt over the former Cougar's season.
The move, announced by the team Saturday, effectively shelves Pipkins III for a significant stretch of the season under NFL IR rules. The Chargers simultaneously bolstered their quarterback depth by signing DJ Uiagalelei to the active roster — a transaction that underscored just how busy the roster-management weekend was in Los Angeles. For Pipkins III, who has carved out a role as a versatile offensive lineman in the NFL, the timing is a gut punch: the league is barely into its September rhythm, and his season may already be on life support.
The Sioux Falls product has long been a point of pride for a program that doesn't routinely send players to the league's highest level. Losing him to IR in Week 3 is a tough blow not just for the Chargers' offensive line room, but for a fanbase that tracks his every snap.
On the Other Side of the League
Meanwhile, in Jacksonville, fellow Sioux Falls alumnus Dennis Gardeck suited up for the Jaguars in their Week 1 matchup against Denver on September 20 — a game Jacksonville dropped 13–20. The linebacker's individual stat line from the outing wasn't detailed in available reporting, but Gardeck's presence on an NFL active roster remains a testament to the Cougars' ability to develop professional-caliber talent.
Defensive end Zach Durfee also remains on Jacksonville's roster, giving Sioux Falls an impressive two-man contingent on the Jaguars alone.
The Bigger Picture
Three Sioux Falls alumni on NFL rosters at the same time is a remarkable achievement for a Division II program in South Dakota. But this week's story belongs to Pipkins III — and not in the way anyone wanted. Injured reserve at the outset of a season is a frustrating plot twist for a player who spent years fighting to establish himself as a reliable NFL lineman.
The Chargers have not disclosed the nature of the injury. Until more details emerge, Pipkins III's return timeline remains an open question. Sioux Falls fans will be watching the injury wire closely.
AI-generated summary
