The Los Angeles Chargers have received mixed injury news ahead of their Week 12 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. While star defensive end Joey Bosa is making progress and is expected to play, fellow defensive lineman Khalil Mack’s status remains uncertain.
Chargers Depleted Edge Rushing Room
Bosa took on his biggest snap share last week (67 percent) after three weeks of being on a significant pitch count, playing less than 30 percent of snaps in those games. In addition to Mack, Bud Dupree was also listed as questionable heading into this game. This means that the only dedicated edge rusher not injured on this team is Tuli Tuipulotu.
While Tuipulotu is having a great season, the Chargers will need a complement on the other side. Even if Bosa is a full go, he can’t play 100 percent of the snap. They will need contributions from Mack and/or Dupree, both of which aren’t guaranteed.
Based on his interview interview, Mack is eager to resume playing. “Yeah, that was nerve-wracking as a m—ther f–ker sitting on the sideline watching it kind of all unfold and not being able to go out and help in any kind of way.”
Linebacker Injuries
The Chargers will also be without linebacker Denzel Perryman, a significant loss for their defense, especially against a potent Ravens rushing attack led by Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. Similarly to the edge rushing corps, the linebackers have suffered a season-ending injury to rookie 3rd rounder, Junior Colson. These duties will be left to Daiyan Henley, and backups Troy Dye and Nick Niemann. The two have combined to play just 14 percent of defensive snaps.
However, the Ravens may also be without their star linebacker, Roquan Smith. Smith not only leads his team with 110 tackles but also leads the league. The Chargers will look to capitalize on the Ravens’ potential absence of Smith by establishing a strong running game with J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. By controlling the clock and limiting Jackson’s opportunities, the Chargers hope to gain a significant advantage in this crucial matchup.
