The Los Angeles Chargers have been banged up all season, but now as they head into a more difficult stretch of their season, these injuries may finally catch up to them.
The Chargers released their first injury report for their Monday Night Football game against the 7-4 Baltimore Ravens revealing several injuries to defensive starters and key role players.
Five Chargers Defensive Starters On Injury Report
Three of the four edge rushers, Joey Bosa, Bud Dupree, and Khalil Mack were all listed as limited participants. Bosa has struggled for weeks to get healthy and Mack has played just four snaps over the last two weeks. This is Dupree’s first appearance on the report since Week 3 when he missed practice due to an illness.
Tuli Tuipulotu has filled in admirably for the Chargers while Mack and Bosa have been injured, but they will need at least one other edge to be ready for the Ravens game.
Several players from the secondary were also listed; Cam Hart (did not practice), AJ Finley (DNP), and Deane Leonard. Leonard is making his return from the IR and was a full participant. The 5th-round rookie, Hart moved into a starting role since Asante Samuel Jr. went on the injured reserve in Week 4. In those six games, Hart has racked up 30 tackles, four passes defended, and one forced fumble.
If Hart is unable to go, they will have to rely on fellow fifth-rounder, Tarheeb Still and practice team member, Eli Apple.
Derwin James was also listed as a limited participant with a groin injury.
The linebacking corps also took a hit, as Denzel Perryman missed more practice time. The 32-year-old did not practice and has been an on-and-off member of the injury list.
With Junior Colson already on IR, the corps will look to Troy Dye, Nick Niemann, and Shaq Quarterman to fill his shoes. Dye has the most experience on the defense, playing nearly 13 percent of the defensive snaps.
