The Los Angeles Chargers injury report for this Sunday’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders has been revealed. With tons of key players likely to miss the matchup against their AFC West foe like Austin Ekeler and Derwin James, certain players will have to step up their game big time if the Chargers want to win this one. Here are the three key injuries that can play a big role in this Sunday’s game.
Austin Ekeler
Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler is doubtful, and projected to miss his third straight game this season due to an ankle injury he suffered in the week one matchup against the Miami Dolphins. Ekeler has always been a huge asset to this Chargers offense not just running the ball, but also a key element to the passing game. In his only game played in 2023, Ekeler rushed for 117 yards and a touchdown while having 47 receiving yards.
He has been a limited participant in practice this week and has worn a brace on his injured right ankle. The star running back says that his ankle is improving, but he is still working toward being 100 percent comfortable making turns and cuts without pain.
Derwin James
Los Angeles Chargers star safety Derwin James is also doubtful to play after suffering a hamstring injury in week three against the Minnesota Vikings. James so far this season has amounted to 24 tackles, which leads the team. He has always been a crucial component to this struggling Chargers defense being able to blitz, stuff the run game, and help significantly with the passing game. Without him in the lineup, the Chargers will likely have issues tackling.
Derwin James did not participate in the Chargers’ practice this Wednesday after suffering what we know as a hamstring injury, and he has been sidelined to open the week. The safety has since been unavailable to practice for the matchup against the Raiders, changing his game status from questionable to doubtful.
Joey Bosa
The Chargers’ star pass rusher Joey Bosa has been listed as questionable to play on Sunday after suffering a hamstring and toe injury in week two against the Tennessee Titans. He was a partial participant in week three, only recording one tackle and one sack. Bosa has had a decent start to 2023 despite the injury. He has six tackles so far, and a team-leading three sacks.
The star pass rusher for the Chargers did not practice all week to ensure no further aggravation to the injury, which has listed Bosa as questionable to play for the second straight week.
Los Angeles Chargers Injury Woes
The Chargers have had the injury bug for several years in a row, and this year does not look any different so far. They have already lost arguably their best receiver Mike Williams for the entire season with doubts that he may be dealt next season, especially with the long list of past injuries following him.
So far this is the only season-ending injury the Chargers have suffered, and hopefully the only one. The Chargers have gotten off to a slow 1-2 start to the 2023 season, and any more serious injuries to the team can hurt their chances of competing for a playoff spot.
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