Chargers WR Mike Williams likely out vs. Raiders due to back injury

The Los Angeles Chargers will likely be without receiver Mike Williams in Thursday's game against the Las Vegas Raiders. ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the pass-catcher is dealing with a back injury. 

Williams has been a solid, if not spectacular, second receiver for the Chargers this year, totaling 572 yards receiving while not starting a few previous games due to injury. When he is on the field, he has established himself as the Chargers' go-to deep threat, averaging 15.9 yards per reception.

Keenan Allen may also not be available Thursday. He may be sidelined due to soreness in his hamstring. Allen has been the Chargers' most consistent offensive weapon this season and has become the favorite target of rookie quarterback Justin Herbert, ranking second in the league with 99 receptions for 975 yards and eight touchdowns.

Fortunately for the Chargers, one of their best offensive weapons is expected to be available. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero said that running back Austin Ekeler is expected to play Thursday despite dealing with some soreness in his quadriceps. Ekeler suffered a grade-2 hamstring strain back in Week 4 and was forced to miss eight weeks before finally returning to the Chargers offense in a Week 12 matchup against the Buffalo Bills. 

The Chargers have officially been eliminated from the playoffs, but while it may seem like they have nothing to play for, head coach Anthony Lynn would definitely benefit from a few late-season wins as he tries to convince the team's ownership and front office to give him another year despite the team's underwhelming record and on-field performance all year.