The Chargers are the only winless team in the NFL heading into Week 8. Almost nothing has gone right for Los Angeles so far, and that’s just the football.
The offense has been abysmal after sky-high expectations were set for Mike McDaniel and Justin Herbert. Instead, it’s been a disaster; however, that’s only half the story. The injuries have also been piling up for the Bolts.
As things stand, the Bolts have eight players on injured reserve, with only one out for the entire season (center Tyler Biadasz). Things aren’t getting any better soon on that front, as the Chargers may put Derwin James on the IR with a hamstring injury.
Outside of Biadasz, only seven players could return for the season. Rashawn Slater's absence is the most detrimental. The
Chargers' offensive line entered the season with some major question marks, and that unit remains among the most worrisome.
They’ve allowed 21 sacks in six games this season. As things stand, that’s tied for fourth, and that’s only because the three quarterbacks in front of Herbert have played in seven games.
Outside of Slater and Biadasz, the Chargers are also without Trevor Penning and Trey Pipkins III. That’s four of the Chargers' five projected starters that LA has been without more often than not.
David Njoku has only played in two games this season. He’s missed the last four games due to a right knee and fibula injury. The full timeline remains unclear, and his injury could affect more of his season.
Perryman has yet to play this season after playing 10 games in 2025. The Chargers veteran linebacker is currently on the IR with an undisclosed injury, but he is nearing a return.
As for Keandre Lambert-Smith, Branson Taylor and Scott Matlock; all three were designated players to return from IR.
The Chargers have been hampered by injuries, but they hope health is on their side as they come back from the bye week.
This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: Chargers have major decisions looming with crowded injured reserve list
