Ronald Harrod Jr
2 min read • January 11, 2023
Posted in
The Los Angeles Chargers have made the playoffs for the first time under head coach Brandon Staley and Justin Herbert. A new era is starting in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean past injuries won’t come back to bite them.
Chargers wideout Mike Williams exited late in the second quarter in Week 18 against the Broncos after taking a hit to the back and reportedly suffered a transverse process fracture.
He has been ruled out for Saturday's contest, but has a chance to return in the next round if the Chargers advance.
Pro Bowl left tackle Rashawn Slater suffered a biceps injury in late September, but had his 21-day practice window opened on Tuesday. He could be back at some point in the playoffs, but the Wild Card round may be a stretch.
Joey Bosa, former all-pro defensive end, returned in week 17 for his first game since suffering a core muscle injury. Bosa has been an elite player since coming back with a 74.5 or better pass rush grade in both games he’s played since being back from injury.
The duo of Khalil Mack and Bosa should wreak havoc for an injured Jaguars offensive line.
But the Chargers will be without Austin Johnson and Christian Covington, who have both suffered season-ending injuries.
The team will be thin in the middle of the defensive line, which Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson could target that deficiency using running back Travis Etienne.
The Jacksonville Jaguars season started a mediocre 3-7, and then after the team’s bye week, they won 6 out of 7 to finish 9-8. The Jaguars are one of the hottest teams entering the playoffs, but their late-season push hasn’t come without some injuries.
Left tackle Cam Robinson, who just signed a 3-year $54 Million extension, was put on the team’s injured reserve after suffering a torn meniscus. This has left the team with starting Walker Little as his replacement. Little has a 61.1 PFF grade and has given up one sack in his 234 snaps this season.
Cornerback Shaquill Griffin, who’s in the second year of a three-year $40 Million contract, was put on the team’s injured reserve list after suffering a season-ending back injury. Luckily second-year corner Tyson Campbell has had an outstanding year registering an 82.1 PFF grade. But the Jaguars’ cornerback room lacks depth.
Travon Walker returned to action in week 17 but looked hampered. In week 18, he looked healthier and registered a 71.3 PFF, which is over 11 points better than his season average.
The Chargers are 2.5-point favorites on the road and the over/under is 47.5, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.
Los Angeles is +2100 to win Super Bowl LVII.
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Written by Ronald Harrod Jr
