The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for their Week 2 matchup against the struggling Carolina Panthers, a second consecutive relatively easy opponent after defeating the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 1. Despite the Panthers’ poor performance, the Chargers aim to be as close to full strength as possible to avoid an upset on the road.
However, a concerning update emerged on Thursday with the release of the Chargers’ latest injury report. Star EDGE rusher Joey Bosa was listed as a “did not practice” due to a back issue. This marks a change from Wednesday when Bosa was limited in practice, suggesting a possible setback between sessions.
Bosa, 29, remained with the team alongside fellow pass rusher Khalil Mack, despite offseason rumors that the new leadership of head coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Joe Hortiz might move on from the high-priced Pro Bowl duo. So far, that decision has paid off, as Bosa returned to form in the Week 1 win over the Raiders, tallying seven tackles, two quarterback hits, a sack, and a forced fumble.
The Chargers’ injury report ahead of Week 2 is extensive, with ten players listed, including Bosa. Key names include:
– Joey Bosa: Back (DNP)
– Junior Colson: Knee (Full)
– Alohi Gilman: Knee (DNP)
– Hassan Haskins: Toe (Limited)
– Khalil Mack: Rest (Full)
– Joshua Palmer: Knee (Limited)
– Denzel Perryman: Knee (Limited)
– Asante Samuel Jr.: Shoulder (Full)
– Tarheeb Still: Hip (Full)
– Ja’Sir Taylor: Fibula (DNP)
While it’s promising that both Colson and Samuel Jr. practiced fully, Bosa’s status is more uncertain. Given that the Chargers are facing a Panthers team that was blown out 47-10 by the New Orleans Saints in Week 1 and has lost 16 of their last 18 games, the Chargers may opt to be cautious with Bosa. If they struggle against Carolina without him, it could indicate larger issues for the team under Harbaugh’s leadership.
