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Chargers Share Ladd McConkey, Daiyan Henley Injury Status’ Ahead Of Week 3 Matchup

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Sep 17, 2025 9:49 PM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers are entering Week 3 against the Denver Broncos with a swollen injury report after a physically taxing start to the season. Wednesday’s practice saw five key players absent, including wide receiver Ladd McConkey (biceps), linebacker Daiyan Henley (illness), safety Elijah Molden (hamstring), tight end Will Dissly (knee), and defensive lineman Justin Eboigbe (foot).

Cornerbacks Cam Hart (hip) and Tarheeb Still (knee/shoulder) were limited, while outside linebacker Khalil Mack was placed on Injured Reserve. Head coach Jim Harbaugh has emphasized careful management of the roster after Monday night’s game against the Raiders, with several starters resting to recover from the short week.

McConkey’s Status Remains Uncertain

Chargers Share Ladd McConkey, Daiyan Henley Injury Status' Ahead Of Week 3 Matchup 1 Amanda Perobelli/Reuters via Imagn Images

Is Jim Harbaugh The Real Life Ted Lasso?

McConkey, who caught a team-high five passes for 48 yards against the Raiders, did not practice on Wednesday. His upper-body injury casts doubt on his availability against Denver. Should he be sidelined, the Chargers could rely more heavily on Quentin Johnston, who has delivered consistent production despite early-season adversity. Johnston recorded a 60-yard touchdown against the Raiders and previously had a strong showing in the season opener in Brazil, catching five passes for 79 yards in the upset win over Kansas City.

Henley’s “Flu Game” Heroics

Chargers Share Ladd McConkey, Daiyan Henley Injury Status' Ahead Of Week 3 Matchup 2 Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Linebacker Daiyan Henley, battling a sinus infection and fever on Monday night, played through significant discomfort and still led the team with 10 combined tackles, a sack, and an interception. “Daiyan couldn’t get out of bed all week,” said All-Pro safety Derwin James. “He was like Superman today. He gave us everything he had.”

Henley himself acknowledged the physical toll: “Every time I hit the sideline, I was short of breath and needed oxygen. One thing you have to be is mentally locked in because you’re physically not 100 percent.”

Harbaugh praised Henley’s performance, calling him “a rising superstar” and highlighting his importance to the defense’s early success.

Chargers Poised Despite Injuries

Despite the mounting injury concerns, Los Angeles has started 2-0 in the AFC West, holding opponents to 15 points per game through two weeks. Justin Herbert has played at an MVP-caliber level, and the team’s defense continues to impress. With McConkey’s status still uncertain, the Chargers will lean on Johnston and other contributors to maintain momentum against Denver at SoFi Stadium this Sunday.

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

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