The Chargers are going to be down even more starters on both sides of the ball in their Week Five matchup with the Broncos.
After missing last week’s game in Seattle, safety Derwin James will miss his second consecutive game, leading the way for another Tony Jefferson start in his place. Right tackle Joe Alt is also among the group who will sit this week, leaving the door open for rookie Travis Burke to earn his first NFL start.
The other five players who are not suiting up this week are wide receiver
Quentin Johnston, rookie receiver Brenen Thompson, offensive guard Kayode Awosika, cornerback Donte Jackson, and guard Trevor Penning.
Without Johnston and Thompson, the Chargers will look towards a limited Ladd McConkey, Tre’ Harris, Derius Davis, and Marquez Valdez-Scantling to shoulder the receiving load. Tight end Charlie Kolar could also make his return to the lineup this week and is listed as questionable, which could go a ways in alleviating the pressure on the receiver room.
Joining Kolar and McConkey as questionable this week are fullback Scott Matlock, offensive guard Branson Taylor, and cornerback Rodney Shelley.
The return of Taylor up front could be huge for the Bolts. If he does not play, they would most likely be forced start four rookies at left tackle, left guard, center, and right tackle this week. Taylor returning to start at left guard would at least provide a veteran (well, second year) presence between Slaughter and presumed starter Logan Taylor on Justin Herbert’s blindside.
