NFL Week 4 Game Preview: Chiefs vs Chargers | Key Injuries & Free Pick

Chiefs vs Chargers Game Overview

The highly anticipated AFC West showdown between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday is set to be a classic. 

The Chiefs, riding the momentum of a 3-0 start, are eager to maintain their dominance, but the Chargers, despite battling key injuries, pose a serious threat under the new guidance of head coach Jim Harbaugh. Quarterback Justin Herbert’s health and availability is a major storyline, as he works through a high ankle sprain, while the Chargers' defense will need to rise to the challenge of stopping Patrick Mahomes and the reigning Super Bowl champions. With division supremacy on the line, this matchup promises to be a great battle between these rivals.

As always, injuries will play a critical role in shaping the outcome of this game. In this article, we’ll break down the most impactful injuries and how they will affect the game.

Kansas City Chiefs - SIC Health Score 88.1

The Kansas City Chiefs are facing challenges in their running back room ahead of the game against the Chargers. Both Isiah Pacheco, who suffered a fractured fibula, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are sidelined, creating a gap in their offensive backfield. To address this, the Chiefs are considering bringing back former RB Kareem Hunt to fill the void. Despite the issues on offense, the Chiefs' defense remains largely unaffected, with no significant injuries reported as they prepare for this key matchup.

Kansas City Chiefs Key Injury Insights

Isiah Pacheco

Reported as a fractured fibula suffered Week 2, fibula is outer part of ankle which is why at first ankle reported during game, good news is likely not displaced fracture and although surgery not always done it may be in this case to speed up recovery time, likely longer than 4 game IR stint but expect him to return this season, in the 6-8 week range.

Los Angeles Chargers - SIC Health Score 76.2

The Los Angeles Chargers are facing significant injury challenges ahead of their upcoming game. Justin Herbert, their star quarterback, is likely to sit out while recovering from injury, with backup Taylor Heinicke expected to take over at the helm. The offensive line is in trouble as well, with both starting tackles, Rashawn Slater (pectoral) and Joe Alt (MCL sprain), sidelined. Defensively, the Chargers could be without two key players: edge rusher Joey Bosa, dealing with a hip issue, and safety Derwin James, who is suspended. These absences pose a major concern for the team’s chances this week.

Los Angeles Chargers Key Injury Insights

Justin Herbert 

The good news for the Chargers is that quarterback Justin Herbert's high ankle sprain hasn't worsened, but the team will opt to start Taylor Heinicke in Week 4 against the Chiefs. Despite Herbert playing through the injury last week, he didn’t finish the game. With the Chargers at 2-1 and facing a critical divisional matchup, the team may prioritize a fully healthy quarterback over risking further injury to Herbert. Heinicke, who has had time to recover and will benefit from a full week of practice, seems to be the likely starter. Additionally, the Chargers have a bye in Week 5, giving Herbert extra time to heal and return fully healthy for the rest of the season. 

Rashawn Slater Injury Insight 

The Chargers' starting left tackle sustained a strained left pectoral during Week 3's game. He exited the game, attempted to return, but was ineffective. He is likely to miss Week 4, but will avoid being placed on IR for now. Slater was integral to the Chargers' pass protection, and his absence had a noticeable impact on the team.

Joe Alt Injury Insight

Rookie first-round pick Joe Alt sprained his MCL against the Steelers on Sunday and is likely to miss Week 4, with the possibility of being sidelined for multiple weeks depending on the severity of the sprain. He will continue to be monitored, but there is a chance he avoids being placed on injured reserve.

Joey Bosa Injury Insight

The Chargers' top edge rusher, Joey Bosa, sustained a hip injury in last Sunday’s game against the Steelers and exited without returning. He will continue to be monitored throughout practice this week, but we lean towards Bosa missing the Chargers' next matchup.

Derwin James Insight

The Chargers star safety will miss the Chiefs matchup due to suspension. Suspension due to numerous illegal hits with the most recent being to Steelers TE Pat Freiermuth. 

Matchup Breakdown: Position Groups Impacted by Injuries

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FREE SIC PICK - Injury-Based Betting Recommendation

JK Dobbins - Under 55.5 Rushing Yards

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