Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Chargers Emerging Star Provides Huge Injury Update

Originally posted on LAFB Network | By Ryan Anderson | Last updated Apr 28, 2025 6:06 PM ET

One of the more important 2024 transactions for the Los Angeles Chargers was trading for defensive back Elijah Molden. While it wasn’t earth-shattering at the time, Molden’s versatility ultimately proved to unlock the defense, particularly Derwin James.

But all of this optimism was put into serious question after Molden broke his fibula toward the end of the season. It also came out that he had a torn meniscus.

The Chargers decided to re-sign the 26-year-old former 3rd-round pick to a lucrative three–year, $18.75 million contract extension that includes $13.50 million guaranteed and an initial signing bonus of $13.75 million in late February.

Los Angeles Chargers DB Elijah Molden Provides Injury Update

At the time, not much was known about his recovery at the time, but during a press conference on Monday afternoon, Molden was asked about his injuries. According to Thuc Nhi Nguyen of the Los Angeles Times, “Molden’s broken leg is all healed, and his recovery from a knee injury is going well. Could have gotten a scope on his knee if it were during the season, but because of the offseason, he opted for an operation to repair it for a better long-term outcome. He’s 3 months into a 4-month process.” And that “Molden expects to be 100% for training camp.”

The Chargers lost cornerbacks Asante Samuel Jr. and Kristian Fulton in free agency this year, but added Benjamin St. Juste and Donte Jackson. They also added safety RJ Mickens in the 6th round and Trikeweze Bridges in the 7th round of the 2025 NFL Draft last week, in addition to five undrafted defensive backs.

Molden is expected to play a large role for the team in a secondary that will feature Derwin James, Cam Hart, Tarheeb Still, Alohi Gilman, and Ja’Sir Taylor. A full 21 percent (19 players) of the team’s 90-man roster is comprised of the defensive backs.

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

More must-reads: