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Chargers Share Latest Status on 2 Injured Starters

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Oct 19, 2025 6:43 PM ET

The Los Angeles Chargers are monitoring the availability of two key players ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports that defensive lineman Otito Ogbonnia (elbow) and offensive tackle Austin Deculus (ankle) are both questionable to return.

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Defensive Line Update

Ogbonnia sustained his elbow injury early in the first quarter of the team’s previous game. He will be evaluated by medical staff to determine whether he can return against the Colts. In his absence, Naquan Jones and Scott Matlock are expected to see an increased role at defensive end.

Chargers Offensive Line Concerns

Chargers Share Latest Status on 2 Injured Starters 2 Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

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The offensive line has already been stretched thin this season, and Deculus’ status adds to the uncertainty. Against the Dolphins, the line consisted of Austin Deculus, Zion Johnson, Bradley Bozeman, Mekhi Becton, and Bobby Hart from left to right. That group faced a relatively tame Dolphins front, which didn’t present the same challenge as the Colts’ pass rush.

The return of left tackle Joe Alt would be a significant boost. Alt has been limited in practice Thursday and Friday after moving to left tackle following Rashawn Slater’s season-ending knee injury in training camp.

Backfield Notes

Running back Kimani Vidal made the most of his first NFL start in place of Omarion Hampton, who was placed on injured reserve after an ankle injury sustained on Oct. 5 against Washington. While Vidal’s performance offered a bright spot, the Chargers will need stability along both the offensive line and in the backfield to stay competitive against a formidable Colts defense.

As the Chargers prepare for Sunday, the availability of Ogbonnia and Deculus could play a pivotal role in the team’s ability to protect quarterback Justin Herbert and maintain defensive pressure.

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

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