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Chargers Share Encouraging Derwin James Injury Update — Will the Star Safety Start vs. Titans?

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Oct 30, 2025 7:16 PM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers got some positive news on the injury front this week. Star safety Derwin James, who suffered a low ankle sprain during the team’s Week 8 win over the Minnesota Vikings, returned to practice on Wednesday as a limited participant and was upgraded to full participation on Thursday.

James’ presence on the field is an encouraging sign that his injury won’t be a long-term issue. The three-time Pro Bowler will have additional opportunities to build on that progress ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Through eight games, James has recorded 49 total tackles — second on the team behind Daiyan Henley (52) — and has tallied at least seven stops in five of his last seven outings.

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Rookie Nikko Reed Steps Up in the Chargers Secondary

Chargers Share Encouraging Derwin James Injury Update — Will the Star Safety Start vs. Titans? 1 Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

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Even with James trending in the right direction, the Chargers will still be shorthanded in the secondary. Cornerback Tarheeb Still is expected to miss Sunday’s game, opening the door for undrafted rookie Nikko Reed to see his first meaningful action.

“Reed will get a real first opportunity,” Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter told The Athletic’s Daniel Popper. “Which I’m really excited about.”

Reed has quietly earned the trust of the coaching staff since training camp, impressing with his range, instincts, and poise in both practice and preseason action. His rise from undrafted free agent to a spot on the 53-man roster has been a steady climb.

“I had a little bit of time throughout my day, but really just getting [a chance] to work another day,” Reed said earlier this month. “Just another day that went by, more work to be done.”

With Reed stepping into the nickel role and James on track to return, the Chargers’ secondary may be young — but it’s proving resilient.

This article first appeared on LAFB Network and was syndicated with permission.

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