The Chargers are seriously banged up, no joke. Star right tackle Joe Alt and safety Derwin James are still sidelined, missing practice again this Thursday, and it looks like they’re both gonna sit out another game. This is the second week in a row these guys haven’t practiced, and they already missed Week 5. That’s huge, especially with the Chiefs coming up.
Major Holes Against Kansas City
It’s not just Alt and James, either. The Bolts are dealing with a brutal injury report. Left guard Kayode Awosika and cornerback Donte Jackson, who’s nursing a hamstring, are also out of practice for the second time this week. Just like Alt and James, they missed Week 5 and all signs point to them being out for Sunday’s matchup against the Chiefs. That’s four starters potentially gone for a massive divisional game. You can’t just plug and play that kind of talent.
More Guys Struggling to Get On The Field
The injury woes just keep piling up for the Chargers. Linebacker Bud Dupree, who’s got a neck issue, and cornerback Rodney Shelley (hamstring) were both totally out of practice on Thursday after only being limited on Wednesday. That’s a downgrade right there. Then you’ve got a whole crew stuck in limited participation: defensive linemen Jamaree Caldwell (knee) and Justin Eboige (shoulder), linebackers Daiyan Henley (shoulder), and a ton of receivers including Quentin Johnston (chest), KeAndre Lambert-Smith (hamstring), Ladd McConkey (foot), and Brenen Thompson (quad). Plus, defensive back Elijah Molden (hamstring), defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson (hamstring), and safety Kendall Williamson (ankle) are all in that same limited boat. It’s a long list of guys not at 100 percent.
Who’s Stepping Up Against the Chiefs?
Amidst all that, at least a few guys were full participants, with tight end Charlie Kolar (forearm), linebacker Khalil Mack (rest day, thank goodness), and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling (rib) getting through practice without issues. Still, with so many key players out or hobbled, the Chargers are gonna have to dig deep this Sunday. They’re facing the Chiefs, a team that doesn’t care who’s on your injury report. It’s gonna be a tough battle, and they’ll need everyone healthy enough to play to bring their A-game.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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