Trey Pipkins Bio
James Earl “Trey” Pipkins III (born September 5, 1996) is an American professional football offensive tackle for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 306 pounds, Pipkins plays one of the most physical positions on the offensive line and has been a steady presence for the Chargers since entering the league.
Drafted in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft, Pipkins developed from a small-college prospect into a starting-caliber NFL lineman. He is widely recognized for his size, athleticism, and willingness to play multiple positions along the offensive front.
Early Life and Background
James Earl Pipkins III was born on September 5, 1996, in Apple Valley, Minnesota, a suburban community south of Minneapolis. He grew up in the same area and attended Apple Valley High School, where he first emerged as a promising football talent. Like many large-framed youngsters in the region, he developed early in multiple sports before focusing on football.
At Apple Valley High School, Pipkins was a multi-sport athlete who eventually concentrated on football and basketball. His combination of size and quickness drew attention from college programs, though his recruitment trail led him to a school well outside the typical Power Five conference spotlight.
He went on to play college football at the University of Sioux Falls, an NCAA Division II program in South Dakota. There, he continued to develop his frame and technique against strong but less-publicized competition, laying the foundation for a professional career.
Path to Professional Football
During his time with the Sioux Falls Cougars, Pipkins emerged as one of the top offensive linemen at the Division II level. He earned recognition for his pass-blocking ability and his capacity to handle bigger defensive linemen, helping build the résumé that would eventually lead NFL scouts to take notice.
Despite playing at a smaller program, Pipkins was invited to the NFL Scouting Combine and put together an impressive showing that confirmed his athleticism for an offensive tackle. His size, arm length, and movement skills convinced several teams that his game could translate to the next level.
That spring, the Los Angeles Chargers selected him in the third round, 91st overall, of the 2019 NFL Draft. The pick reflected both his physical upside and the Chargers’ commitment to rebuilding the offensive line around young talent.
Trey Pipkins Career
Early Career (2019–2021)
As a rookie, Pipkins spent most of the 2019 season adjusting to the speed and complexity of the NFL game, appearing primarily on special teams and in reserve roles. He used that year to add strength and learn the Chargers’ offensive system under the coaching staff.
His second and third seasons brought more opportunities as he rotated between tackle and guard. In 2020, Pipkins dealt with a pair of stints on the reserve/COVID-19 list during the pandemic-altered schedule, being placed on the list in late October and again in early December before being activated each time. Despite those disruptions, he continued to develop and contribute when healthy.
Starting Role (2022)
The 2022 season marked a clear turning point in Pipkins’ career. The Chargers named him the starting right tackle, and he went on to start 14 games, providing stability on the right side of the offensive line. His performances that year helped protect quarterback Justin Herbert and supported the team’s running game.
His growth throughout the season showed scouts and coaches that he could handle the responsibilities of a full-time starting role in the NFL. By season’s end, Pipkins had established himself as a reliable piece of the Chargers’ offensive front.
Contract Extension and Versatility (2023)
On March 14, 2023, Pipkins signed a three-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Chargers, signaling the organization’s belief in his long-term role. The deal underlined his value as a versatile lineman capable of playing tackle or guard when needed.
During a Week 2 loss to the Tennessee Titans that season, Pipkins added a memorable highlight to his résumé. Declared an eligible receiver, he caught a pass for a two-point conversion, a rare offensive play for an offensive lineman and a moment Chargers fans quickly noted.
Driving Style and Strengths
Pipkins is known for his combination of length, foot quickness, and physicality at the line of scrimmage. He is effective in pass protection on the edges and has shown the flexibility to shift inside to guard when the Chargers require. His football intelligence and willingness to adjust on the fly have made him a dependable piece of the offensive line.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among the most notable moments of Pipkins’ career are his third-round selection in the 2019 NFL Draft, being named the Chargers’ starting right tackle in 2022, his 2023 contract extension, and his two-point conversion reception against Tennessee. Together, these milestones trace a steady rise from small-college prospect to entrenched NFL starter.
Trey Pipkins Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Pipkins was born and raised in Apple Valley, Minnesota, the same community where he attended high school. The familiar surroundings of his hometown remain closely tied to his personal story as a football player.
Personal Life
Off the field, Pipkins is recognized for his work ethic and the steady path he has taken from Apple Valley to the NFL. He is widely regarded as a quiet, team-oriented presence in the Chargers locker room.
2025 Season Performance
Heading into the 2025 season, Pipkins remains under contract with the Chargers as part of the extension he signed in 2023, which runs through 2026. His continued presence provides the team with experienced depth and starting capability on the offensive line.
The Chargers are expected to rely on his versatility, using him at either tackle or guard depending on matchups and injuries. His familiarity with the offensive scheme and his standing among the team’s veteran linemen position him as a key contributor once again.
As the season unfolds, Pipkins’ role will be tied to the protection of the quarterback and the effectiveness of the run game. If he maintains his 2022 form and stays healthy, he will remain an important figure on a Chargers offensive line looking to play at a high level.