Chargers’ second injury report adds more absences as Sunday matchup vs. Broncos nears

The Los Angeles Chargers’ injury situation continued to shape their week as they released another practice update with Sunday’s kickoff against the Denver Broncos approaching quickly. On Thursday, the team’s second injury report of the week again listed multiple starters as non-participants, reinforcing that the Chargers are operating with limited full-go availability during a critical stretch of their season.

Two names stood out in the reported practice status: Derwin James and Ladd McConkey were once again not participating in Thursday’s practice. James, a cornerstone of the Chargers’ defensive backfield, has typically been a stabilizing presence when available, and McConkey’s role as a key element of the passing attack makes his availability especially important for offensive rhythm and matchup planning.

The timing adds pressure. With Sunday less than 72 hours away from the publication of the injury report, the window for turning limited practice participation into full participation narrows rapidly. Injury reports can reflect anything from soreness management to treatment plans, but when the same high-impact players remain out multiple straight sessions, teams usually have to build game plans around the next man up rather than waiting for a late resolution.

In terms of how this affects the game against Denver, the practical issue for Los Angeles is depth and continuity. When starters do not practice, coaches lose reps that normally refine coverage rotations, communication on defense, and timing routes on offense. Even if some players are able to return later in the week, Wednesday and Thursday practice reps often carry disproportionate weight because of game preparation needs and the need to install plan-specific fundamentals.

The Chargers’ report is part of a broader three-injury-report cadence leading into Sunday. While the article notes this was the second update, meaning another report is expected before kickoff, the message from Thursday was not encouraging. When multiple starters are again listed as non-participants, it suggests either that several ailments are lingering or that the team is being cautious with players who have not yet reached full practice readiness.

For the Broncos, Los Angeles’ availability status presents an opportunity to attack areas where schemes may be forced to adjust. For the Chargers, the emphasis will likely shift toward simplifying packages and leaning on players who are practicing more consistently, with special attention to how James’ absence (if it continues) changes defensive execution and how McConkey’s status influences the distribution of targets.

With the next injury report on the horizon, the central question becomes whether James and McConkey can change course and participate in a meaningful way. If either player remains non-participant, the Chargers will likely have to continue building a Sunday plan around replacements rather than contingent hope, and those choices can set the tone for how aggressive they are on both sides of the ball early in the game.