The Los Angeles Chargers are not the luckiest team in the NFL. Or at least that’s been the case in the last few weeks. Not only that, it seems all their problems are coming on the offensive side of the ball. Now, another thing is coming to stun Jim Harbaugh and Justin Herbert as they prepare for the new season.
While rookie Tre Harris is holding out amid all the second-round rookie contracts controversy, now it’s the other receiver, Mike Williams who will not be available. Williams has been listed in the physically unable to perform list. If your name is in the PUP list, you will miss at least the first four weeks of the season.
This adds to the recent report of running back Najee Harris suffering an eye injury during a 4th of July event that had fireworks gone wrong. Harris, thankfully, is expected to be okay for the season. However, it’s just a string of bad news for the Chargers.
Mike Williams has lots of talent, but availability is an issue
Unfortunately for Williams, this has been the story of his career. Always a great receiver when available, but health has been his biggest roadblock. He has always dealt with injuries. Still, Jim Harbaugh knows that he can be deadly on deep routes once he is cleared to play.
Mike Williams of the New York Jets against the Denver Broncos at MetLife Stadium on September 29, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Availability is the best ability, but at 31 years old, it’s more likely that Williams won’t ever fully get his health right. As with age, injuries are more likely to happen, statistically speaking. Williams is a known face in the Chargers facility, as he played his first seven years in the NFL there. Then, he roamed last season playing for the Jets and then for the Steelers. Despite playing 18 games, he had one of his worst statistical seasons.
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Chargers should have a top-tier receiving corp, but only one is available
If you look at the depth chart and see sophomore baller Ladd McConkey, known-face, great contested catcher Mike Williams, and rookie standout Tre Harris, you must think the Chargers have an elite receiving corp. However, with Williams’ injury and Harris’ holdout, the only available is Ladd McConkey.
McConkey was a brilliant receiver in his rookie season. He caught 82 passes for 1,149 yards and seven touchdowns. Also, his prolific route-running is something that Justin Herbert must appreciate.
