Los Angeles Chargers vs. Denver Broncos: Week 6 Injury Report and Key Updates for 2024
As the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos prepare for their Week 6 matchup in the 2024 NFL season, injuries are once again a major storyline for both teams. The Chargers and Broncos, two AFC West rivals, will square off in a game that could significantly impact the division standings. Both teams have key players dealing with injuries, making this week’s practice reports essential to understand how each side will approach the game.
Here’s a detailed look at the injury report for both teams and how the availability of key players could shape this crucial matchup.
Chargers Injury Report
The Los Angeles Chargers have had their fair share of injury troubles so far this season, and Week 6 is no exception. Here’s a breakdown of the key players listed on the injury report:
1. Justin Herbert – QB
Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert has been dealing with a fractured finger on his non-throwing hand. While he has been able to play through the injury in previous games, the team is monitoring his status closely to ensure he remains comfortable and effective on the field. Herbert was listed as a full participant in practice, indicating that he will likely play in Week 6, but his ability to scramble and protect himself could be impacted.
2. Austin Ekeler – RB
Running back Austin Ekeler has missed several weeks due to an ankle injury but was a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. His potential return would be a huge boost for the Chargers, as Ekeler’s ability as both a runner and a receiver out of the backfield is key to the team’s offensive success. If Ekeler can’t go, Joshua Kelley will continue to handle the bulk of the carries.
3. Joey Bosa – DE
Star defensive end Joey Bosa has been battling a hamstring injury all season and was a limited participant in practice. Bosa has been playing in a rotational role to limit the strain on his hamstring, but his presence on the field, even in limited snaps, has been impactful. The Chargers will be hoping to have Bosa available to disrupt the Broncos’ passing game and apply pressure on Russell Wilson.
4. Corey Linsley – C
Chargers center Corey Linsley, a key anchor of the offensive line, remains on the injury report due to a heart issue that has sidelined him since early in the season. He was placed on injured reserve and will not play in Week 6, forcing the Chargers to continue using a backup center. Linsley’s absence has been noticeable, and the Chargers’ offensive line will face a stiff challenge from the Broncos’ defensive front.
5. Derwin James – S
Safety Derwin James, one of the Chargers’ defensive leaders, was listed as a limited participant in practice with a shoulder injury. James has missed a couple of games this season, and his availability is crucial for the Chargers’ defense, particularly against the Broncos’ deep passing game. His ability to roam the field, make plays in coverage, and support the run defense will be key.
Broncos Injury Report
The Denver Broncos have also had their fair share of injuries, and Week 6 is shaping up to be no different. Here’s a look at some of the key players on their injury report:
1. Javonte Williams – RB
Running back Javonte Williams, coming off a major knee injury last season, has been dealing with a quadriceps injury this year. He was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday, leaving his status for Week 6 in question. If Williams is unable to play, the Broncos will lean on Jaleel McLaughlin and Samaje Perine to carry the load in the running game.
2. Jerry Jeudy – WR
Wide receiver Jerry Jeudy was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice despite dealing with a hamstring injury earlier in the season. Jeudy has struggled to stay healthy, but his presence on the field is vital for the Broncos’ passing game. If Jeudy can play at full speed, he’ll provide Russell Wilson with a reliable target to challenge the Chargers’ secondary.
3. Randy Gregory – OLB
Outside linebacker Randy Gregory, one of the Broncos’ key pass rushers, was traded to the San Francisco 49ers in the previous week. His absence will force Denver to rely on young players like Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto to pressure Justin Herbert. The Broncos will need these players to step up to generate pressure on a potent Chargers offense.
4. Pat Surtain II – CB
Star cornerback Pat Surtain II has been a staple of the Broncos’ defense, but he was listed as a limited participant in practice with a shoulder injury. His availability will be critical, as Surtain is tasked with covering some of the league’s top wide receivers week after week. If he’s limited or unable to play, it could spell trouble for the Broncos’ secondary against a Chargers offense that thrives on deep passes.
5. Baron Browning – LB
Linebacker Baron Browning is working his way back from a knee injury and was a limited participant in practice. Browning’s versatility as both a pass rusher and a run defender is valuable to the Broncos’ defense, and his return would provide a much-needed boost to the front seven. However, it remains to be seen if Browning will be ready for Week 6.
Key Matchups Impacted by Injuries
1. Justin Herbert vs. Broncos Secondary
With Justin Herbert dealing with a fractured finger and Pat Surtain II nursing a shoulder injury, both teams’ ability to win this matchup could come down to which player is healthier. If Surtain can’t play or is limited, Herbert could have a field day attacking the Broncos’ secondary with wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. However, Herbert’s finger injury could affect his ability to deliver deep throws with accuracy.
2. Austin Ekeler’s Potential Return
If Austin Ekeler returns from his ankle injury, the Chargers’ offense will have a new dimension. The Broncos’ run defense has been inconsistent, and Ekeler’s ability to break off big plays as both a runner and a receiver could be a game-changer. However, if Ekeler is limited or unable to play, the Chargers may struggle to establish a balanced offensive attack.
3. Javonte Williams vs. Chargers Run Defense
The Broncos will need Javonte Williams to be healthy and productive to control the tempo of the game. The Chargers have had issues stopping the run in previous weeks, and if Williams is able to go, he could exploit this weakness. However, if Williams is out or limited, the Broncos will have to rely on a less experienced backfield.
4. Joey Bosa vs. Russell Wilson
Joey Bosa’s injury status will also play a major role in this game. If Bosa is able to suit up and play significant snaps, his ability to pressure Russell Wilson could force the Broncos’ offense into quick, short passes, limiting their ability to stretch the field. If Bosa is limited, Wilson may have more time in the pocket to find Jeudy and Sutton downfield.
Final Thoughts
Injuries are a significant factor heading into this Week 6 matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and Denver Broncos. Both teams have key players whose availability remains in question, and their presence or absence could make all the difference on Sunday. As the week progresses, keeping an eye on the final injury report will provide more clarity on how this crucial divisional game will unfold.
People Also Ask:
- Is Justin Herbert playing in Week 6?
- Will Austin Ekeler return for the Chargers vs. Broncos game?
- Is Jerry Jeudy healthy for Week 6?
- What is Pat Surtain II’s status for the Broncos vs. Chargers game?
- How has Joey Bosa been performing despite his injury?
