2 Key Chargers Offensive Starters Avoid Major Injuries After Training Camp Scare

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McConkey’s absence loomed especially large considering his historic rookie season. The former Georgia standout caught 82 passes for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns in 2024, quickly becoming Justin Herbert’s go-to option. In the postseason, he etched his name into NFL history with 197 receiving yards in a loss to Houston—the most ever by a rookie in a playoff game.

That kind of performance has dramatically raised expectations for Year 2. But with those expectations comes heightened concern around any sign of physical setback.

Harbaugh addressed the media on Tuesday and confirmed that McConkey would not practice this week and wouldn’t suit up for (and didn’t) Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game against the Lions. According to Harbaugh, McConkey is “working through something minor,” and his absence is more precautionary than concerning.

Still, it’s not the first time McConkey has had to manage his health. Despite technically missing only one game last season, the rookie battled through a series of injuries—hip, shoulder, and knee—that tested his durability from Week 6 onward. And while Harbaugh and the staff remain optimistic, hearing the word “injury” next to McConkey’s name is enough to stir anxiety in Los Angeles.

Mekhi Becton Returns To Chargers Training Camp—and Locks Down a Starting Spot

Becton, the Chargers’ top offensive line addition this offseason, also missed two practices early in camp. But unlike McConkey, the veteran lineman returned to the field by Day 4, easing immediate concerns about his availability.

Harbaugh confirmed that the 6-foot-7, 363-pound former tackle will start at right guard. After helping anchor the Eagles’ Super Bowl run last season while transitioning to the interior, Becton arrives with both pedigree and power. And Harbaugh isn’t hiding his excitement.

“You just start visualizing that size, that length on the right side with Mekhi and Joe,” Harbaugh said, referring to right tackle Joe Alt. “The run blocking is elite. Pass blocking as well, elite.”

Harbaugh doubled down on that vision, suggesting the Chargers could lean heavily on the right side of the line. “Been really excited with Mekhi Becton, just how big we are on the right side of the line of scrimmage,” he added. “We’ll probably be a right-handed type of team.”

Popper reported Becton was back at right guard during Saturday’s session, lining up next to a reshuffled front that included Alt at right tackle, Zion Johnson at center, Bradley Bozeman at left guard, and rookie Joe Tippmann filling in at left tackle while Rashawn Slater ramped back up.

The coaching staff sees Becton as a stabilizing force—both physically and culturally—on an offensive line tasked with protecting Herbert and creating space for rookie running back Omarion Hampton.

Chargers Proceed with Caution

With the season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil just over a month away, Harbaugh and the Chargers aren’t interested in rushing back players who project as foundational pieces.

While the absences of McConkey and Becton briefly raised eyebrows, the team’s approach has been calculated. The regular season—not the preseason—is the focus.

In the meantime, depth players like rookie receivers Tre Harris and KeAndre Lambert-Smith will have a chance to showcase themselves with extended reps. But make no mistake: the Chargers’ offense revolves around McConkey, and the right side of the line starts with Becton.

Both players are expected to be back to full speed long before Week 1. For now, the Chargers are leaning on patience—and perspective.