Following a week off, the Los Angeles Chargers will return to SoFi Stadium on Sunday to face the Los Angeles Rams with several key offensive players recovering from injury, even as the team copes with the loss of All-Pro safety Derwin James Jr.
James was placed on injured reserve Saturday after missing the last three games with a hamstring injury and suffering a setback during his rehabilitation. His absence leaves a significant void in the Chargers’ defense, which has relied heavily on his leadership and playmaking ability. Defensive coordinator Chris O’Leary acknowledged that replacing James is a daunting challenge, calling him one of the best players in the league. The task may be complicated further as cornerbacks Donte Jackson and Rodney Shelley are listed as questionable due to hamstring issues.
Despite the defensive challenges, the Chargers will welcome the return of wide receivers Ladd McConkey and Tre’ Harris, as well as offensive tackle Joe Alt, all of whom have recovered from injuries. McConkey, who had been sidelined by a concussion, and Harris, who has been out with a hamstring injury, rank as the team’s top two receivers in receptions and yardage when available this season. Harris leads with 15 receptions for 225 yards and 26 targets, while McConkey follows closely with 13 catches for 200 yards on 18 targets. Their presence is expected to bolster an offense that has struggled to generate consistent production.
Alt’s return to the offensive line is also significant. The Chargers have faced considerable pressure on quarterback Justin Herbert, who has recorded a league-worst 29.4 passer rating over the two games Alt missed, during which Herbert was sacked nine times. Alt’s absence was felt acutely as the offensive line has contended with injuries to other key players, including Rashawn Slater (ankle) and Kayode Awosika (fibula), who remain sidelined.
Offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel emphasized the need to adapt the game plan to the players available each week and expressed optimism about the returning athletes’ preparation. The Chargers currently rank near the bottom of the league in offensive production, averaging just 15 points per game and 4.6 yards per play.
Head coach Jim Harbaugh expressed relief at having key players back on the field after the bye week, calling the preparation period a positive step forward. Quarterback Herbert also welcomed the break, describing it as “much-needed” for the team to regroup.
On defense, O’Leary reiterated a team-first approach, prioritizing collective effort as the unit adjusts to multiple injuries. Despite allowing the eighth-fewest passing yards per game, the Chargers will need the entire defense to perform at a high level without James.
With the Chargers seeking their first win of the season, the return of McConkey, Harris, and Alt on offense offers a critical injection of talent as they prepare to challenge the Rams on Sunday.