With their win over the New England Patriots, the Los Angeles Chargers clinched a spot playoff in the upcoming NFL postseason.
While that is worth celebrating, they also lost starting free safety Elijah Molden, who suffered a broken fibula in the win. Molden will miss the remainder of the Chargers 2024 campaign.
Elijah Molden Ruled Out For Chargers Playoff Run
Molden emerged as a valuable asset to the Chargers’ defense under the guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh and defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. Thrust into a starting role, Molden demonstrated versatility and playmaking ability.
His addition via trade shortly before the season allowed Minter to move Derwin James to various positions on the field and became a critical member of the team as Alohi Gilman struggled to stay healthy.
Molden combined for 71 tackles, including two for loss. In coverage he allowed just 18 receptions on 27 targets for 173 yards, amounting to a 44.8 NFL passer rating. He also picked off three passes and recovered two fumbles.
Molden missed Week 16 with a knee injury and was questionable to play against the Patriots with the same ailment. New addition Eddie Jackson and veteran Tony Jefferson filled in for Molden once he left the game.
The Chargers have found their secondary bare due to injuries. Gilman is now on the injured reserve along with Asante Samuel Jr., Marcus Maye, and Eli Apple.
This has forced the team to rely heavily on rookie fifth-rounders, Tarheeb Still and Cam Hart. While the young duo has played admirably, their level of competition is about to take a big leap in the tougher direction as they embark on their playoff run.
They will likely play the Buffalo Bills or the Baltimore Ravens in the Wild Card round.