We’re in Week 9 of the NFL season, and the Chargers remain the only team that hasn't won a game.
The Chargers, who came into the season with lofty expectations, have fallen flat. Everything is going wrong for the team, and they may trade some of their top players in the coming days.
That all remains to be seen. In the meantime, they have a game they’d love to win.
Here are five Chargers players to watch in Week 9.
Khalil Mack
Mack sits at the top of the list because this could be his final contest as a Charger. He's the most intriguing player this week. The Chargers remain winless, and with the trade deadline approaching, questions about the organization's future will only grow louder in the coming days. Even though the Chargers reportedly have no plans to trade anyone,
the possibility makes Mack worth watching.
Justin Herbert
Herbert is coming off an encouraging game against the Rams. Although he threw two interceptions and is catching some slack for Rams safety Quentin Lake's comments, it was, ironically, his best game. The 28-year-old quarterback completed 24 of 32 passes for 257 yards (a season-high). The matchup against the Texans is somewhat favorable, as Houston allows 244 passing yards. The Houston secondary is far from what we expected at this point in the season. I believe Herbert will build on his Rams performance and be even better against the Texans.
Joe Alt
Alt might be the most important player to watch outside of Herbert. After returning from injury against the Rams, Alt didn't allow a single quarterback pressure and earned an 89.9 pass-block grade, the highest among tackles in Week 8. This matchup will be Alt's toughest yet, facing the likes of Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. With no Rashawn Slater on the other side, Alt will get all the Texans have and then some.
Omarion Hampton
The Chargers could finally change their running back rotation, and Hampton could return as the lead back. Jim Harbaugh indicated that the team is considering allowing one running back to establish the rhythm rather than constantly rotating Hampton, Kimani Vidal, and Keaton Mitchell. Hampton's role has been limited all season long, but Week 9 could show some promise.
Isas Waxter
The young cornerback made an impression against the Rams, recording six tackles and two tackles for loss. He also allowed just three receptions for negative four yards in coverage. Waxter made his presence felt, and I believe he will be even better in Week 9. With Derwin James on injured reserve and the secondary dealing with injuries, Waxter could continue receiving meaningful opportunities. Waxter has the opportunity to establish himself as a solid contributor during an otherwise disappointing season.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 5 Chargers players to watch in Week 9 vs. Texans
