Insiders Provide Chargers Latest Update On 2 Critical Injuries

Got That Big Kick Energy?

NFL insider Patrick Daugherty echoed that optimism, noting that Harris’ vision and overall football health are not expected to be impacted. Importantly, Harris was not placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list as camp opened, a strong sign the team expects him to ramp up his participation in the coming days or weeks.

Harris, a four-year veteran and former first-round pick, joins the Chargers after rushing for 1,000+ yards in each of his seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers — the only running back in the league to do so during that stretch. His bruising style, durability (68 straight games played), and veteran poise made him the ideal complement to rookie first-round pick Omarion Hampton, who will handle most of the early reps as Harris eases back into form.

Mike Williams’ Comeback Delayed by PUP Designation

While Harris avoided a worst-case scenario, veteran wide receiver Mike Williams wasn’t as lucky. The Chargers placed Williams on the PUP list at the start of training camp, casting doubt on his readiness for the regular season and slowing the momentum on what was supposed to be a redemption arc.

After a turbulent 2024 season that included short stints with the Jets and Steelers — resulting in just 21 catches for 298 yards over 18 games — Williams re-signed with the Chargers on a one-year, $6 million deal, returning to the franchise that made him the No. 7 overall pick in 2017.

Williams’ placement on the PUP list means he cannot practice with the team until medically cleared, though he can attend meetings and rehab with trainers. If he remains on the list after the final roster cuts, he would be ineligible to play for the first four regular-season games.

The Chargers have not disclosed the nature of Williams’ injury, though it’s believed to stem from issues that lingered during minicamp. With second-round rookie Tre Harris still unsigned and depth questions at the position, Williams was expected to be a stabilizing veteran presence opposite Quentin Johnston and Joshua Palmer.

Harbaugh Already Facing Early Adversity

Despite opening training camp with a revamped roster and playoff aspirations, the Chargers are already feeling the weight of early-season adversity. Five players — including Williams — were placed on the PUP list, while Harris’ near-miss injury has forced rookie Omarion Hampton and backups Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins into expanded reps.

For Harbaugh, who’s aiming to reestablish the Chargers as contenders in a division dominated by Kansas City, managing player health and depth during camp will be critical. Harris’ expected return gives the backfield hope of stability, but Williams’ uncertain timeline threatens to undermine the cohesion the offense is working to build with Justin Herbert under a new system.

Final Outlook

While Harris is trending in the right direction and should be ready for LA’s Week 1 matchup against the Chiefs, Williams’ status is far more up in the air. The two offseason additions were expected to be impact players in different ways — Harris as a reliable workhorse in the run game, and Williams as a vertical threat returning to familiar territory.

For now, Chargers fans can breathe a sigh of relief on Harris. As for Williams, the clock is already ticking on what might be his last opportunity to reestablish himself as a go-to NFL wideout.