RSS Chargers Team Notes

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers place RB Omarion Hampton on IR with ankle injury

Chargers first-round running back Omarion Hampton is being placed on injured reserve after suffering an ankle injury against the Commanders on Sunday afternoon. Hampton left the game early and was seen wearing a walking boot in the locker room after the game.

Per Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers will now be without Hampton for at least four games. This new comes just two weeks after fellow running back Najee Harris tore his achilles against the Denver Broncos in Week Three.

Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh said RB Omarion Hampton will be placed injured reserve, sidelining him a minimum of four games due to his ankle injury.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 6, 2025

The loss of Hampton immediately means the Chargers have one of the worst running back situations in the entire league. Hassan Haskins now figures to be the team’s top back with second-year back Kimani Vidal working as the RB2. The team also has UDFA rookie Amar Johnson on the practice squad who originally signed with the Packers out of South Dakota State.

Expect the Chargers to sign another running back to give them more bodies/options as they traverse this murky situation for the offense.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ce-rb-omarion-hampton-on-ir-with-ankle-injury

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers vs. Dolphins By The Numbers: It’s time for the Bolts to run wild

The Charger s are 3-2 on the season and will travel to Miami to face the 1-4 Dolphins in Week Six. This is an excellent chance for some kind of a “get right game” but that’s only if they can button up the penalty issues and lack of discipline.

Despite their record, the Dolphins are still a dangerous team on offense. Defensively, however, they’re not looking too hot. That’s especially true on the ground where they allow a league-leading 174.2 rushing yards per game.

Could it be a big week for either Hassan Haskins or Kimani Vidal? Only time will tell!

With that said, here’s a quick screenshot of how these two teams fare on paper after the first five weeks of the season.

Let’s dive in!

Chargers Offense​

Total yards per game: 352.2 (12th)
Points per game: 19.6 (25th)
Passing yards per game: 235.4 (10th)
Rushing yards per game: 116.8 (14th)

Top Performers

Passing: QB Justin Herbert – 1,229 passing yards, 8 touchdowns
Rushing yards: RB Omarion Hampton – 314
Rushing touchdowns: RB Omarion Hampton – 2
Receiving yards: WR Quentin Johnston – 377
Receptions: WR Keenan Allen – 29
Receiving touchdowns: WR Quentin Johnston – 4

Chargers Defense​

Total yards allowed per game: 293.8 (7th)
Points allowed per game: 19.6 (6th)
Passing yards allowed per game: 172.2 (5th)
Rushing yards allowed per game: 121.6 (18th)

Top Performers

Tackles: LB Daiyan Henley – 39
Tackles for loss: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 6
Sacks: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 4
Passes Defended: CB Tarheeb Still – 4
Interceptions: 3 players tied w/ 1
Forced fumbles: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu, DT Teair Tart – 1
Fumble recoveries: DT Teair Tart – 1

Dolphins Offense​

Total yards per game: 278.6 (28th)
Points per game: 21.4 (21st)
Passing yards per game: 196.4 (21st)
Rushing yards per game: 82.2 (30th)

Top Performers

Passing: QB Tua Tagovailoa – 1,008 passing yards, 10 touchdowns
Rushing yards: RB De’Von Achane – 262
Rushing touchdowns: RB De’Von Achane, RB Ollie Gordon – 1
Receiving yards: WR Jaylen Waddle – 295
Receptions: RB De’Von Achane – 25
Receiving Touchdowns: 3 players tied w/ 3

Dolphins Defense​

Total yards allowed per game: 386.6 (29th)
Points allowed per game: 29.0 (27th)
Passing yards allowed per game: 212.4 (16th)
Rushing yards allowed per game: 174.2 (32nd)

Top Performers

Tackles: LB Jordyn Brooks – 57
Tackles for loss: LB Tyrel Dodson, EDGE Bradley Chubb – 4
Sacks: EDGE Bradley Chubb – 4
Passes Defended: CB Rasul Douglas – 4
Interceptions: S Minkah Fitzpatrick – 1
Forced fumbles: 4 players tied w/ 1
Fumble recoveries: 4 players tied w/ 1

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...he-numbers-its-time-for-the-bolts-to-run-wild

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers-Dolphins Wednesday Injury Report: DT Da’Shawn Hand, EDGE Bud Dupree DNP

It’s a larger injury report for the Chargers to kick off Week Six as 11 names grace Wednesday’s edition.

In all, seven players were sidelined entirely while four participated in a limited fashion. Your non-participants on Wednesday were wide receiver Keenan Allen (veteran’s rest day), offensive tackle Joe Alt (ankle), returner Derius Davis (knee), edge rusher Bud Dupree (hamstring), defensive tackle Da’Shawn Hand (groin), offensive tackle Trey Pipkins (knee), and cornerback Ja’Sir Taylor (illness).

The four limited participants were offensive guard Mekhi Becton (hand), wide receiver Quentin Johnston (hamstring), linebacker Denzel Perryman (ankle), and offensive guard Jamaree Salyer (knee).

wednesday’s #LACvsMIA injury report pic.twitter.com/ul5O04gRfC

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 8, 2025

It’s no wonder the Chargers went and traded for a new pass rusher if Dupree’s hamstring issue is something that will keep him off the field for any amount of time. Without him, they’d be down to Tuli Tuipulotu and Caleb Murphy as the starting edge players with Kyle Kennard coming off the bench.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ry-report-dt-dashawn-hand-edge-bud-dupree-dnp

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers-Dolphins Thursday Injury Report: Mekhi Becton practiced in full

The Chargers have dropped their second injury report of Week Six and fortunately it looks like a handful of Bolts have progressed in their injury designations.

First up, Keenan Allen returned from his veteran’s day off to practice in full. Secondly, right guard Mekhi Becton improved from a limited participant to full participant in regard to his hand injury he sustained against the Commanders. Edge rusher Bud Dupree (hamstring), linebacker Denzel Perryman (ankle), and cornerback Ja’Sir Taylor (illness) also improved upon their tag from Wednesday.

As for those who did not practice Thursday, they were offensive tackle Joe Alt (ankle), returner Derius Davis (knee), defensive tackle Da’Shawn Hand (groin), offensive tackle Trey Pipkins (knee), and offensive guard Jamaree Salyer (knee). Salyer practiced in a limited fashion on Wednesday but seemingly moved backwards into a DNP Thursday.

Wide receiver Quentin Johnston (hamstring) was also limited for the second consecutive practice.

thursday's #LACvsMIA injury report pic.twitter.com/cWjFVtGbzx

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 9, 2025

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-injury-report-mekhi-becton-practiced-in-full

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Reacts Survey Week 6: How confident are you in this team?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Chargers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...vey-week-6-how-confident-are-you-in-this-team

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

How to make sure Bolts From The Blue shows up in your Google search

As many of you are likely aware, Google searches are … different these days.

The good news is Google is offering a solution for folks who like to get their news from specific sources. If you want to help Bolts From The Blue — while also streamlining all your Google searches — there is now a way.

Simply click on this link and add Bolts From The Blue as one of your “Source preferences.” That’s all there is to it!

Back in August, the tech giant debuted a feature called “Preferred Sources.” It’s a way for Google to prominently feature the results from websites you trust, like Bolts From The Blue:

“With the launch of Preferred Sources in the U.S. and India, you can select your favorite sources and stay up to date on the latest content from the sites you follow and subscribe to — whether that’s your favorite sports blog or a local news outlet. …

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As some of you might know, AI searches are hurting outlets around the world and in all spaces. We’ve worked hard at Bolts From The Blue to build a brand you can trust and rely on for Los Angeles Chargers coverage. Our goal is to serve you, the fans.

If you’re a fan of our work and want to get the best Los Angeles Chargers coverage possible, this is an excellent win-win to improve your Google searches while helping Bolts From The Blue out.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/ge...-from-the-blue-shows-up-in-your-google-search

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Chargers-Dolphins score predictions thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Thursday’s injury report for the Chargers was a mixed bag of good and bad (Chargers.com)

Check out how Hassan Haskins and Kimani Vidal are embracing larger roles for the Chargers (Chargers.com)

Jim Harbaugh recently gave his thoughts on the trade for edge rusher Odafe Oweh (Chargers Wire)

The recent injury report for the Chargers shows things could get even worse for the offensive line (Chargers.com)

NFL News:​

The Giants managed to best the Eagles on Thursday Night Football (ESPN)

Lane Johnson wants the Eagles offense to be less predictable moving forward (ESPN)

Experts break down the biggest games in the NFL for Week Six (CBS Sports)

What we learned from the Giants’ win over the Eagles on Thursday night (NFL.com)

Ja’Marr Chase appreciates the Bengals trying to make this season work by trading for Joe Flacco (Pro Football Talk)

Saquon Barkley believes the Eagles need to adjust their attitude to help right the ship on offense (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ks-chargers-dolphins-score-predictions-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

3 things to watch for in Chargers-Dolphins: Attack, attack, attack the quarterback

The Chargers on a two-game skid and desperately need to find a way to right the ship this week against a 1-4 Dolphins team.

When you look at the remaining schedule, it actually gets a lot more difficult through the second half of the season. Aside from games against the Titans and Raiders, I’m not sure there’s any other game that you could argue the Chargers “should” win given the state of the team and their recent struggles.

As of now, the Bolts need to keep pace with the Broncos who now share the AFC West lead at 3-2. The thing is, the Broncos are healthy for the most part and are not missing any glaring superstars. Their playmakers are all healthy and available.

It’s a taller task for the Chargers in every way to stay atop the division, but if Jim Harbaugh is the coach everyone believes he is, he’ll find a way to tread water until their impact players start to sprinkle back into the lineup.

With that said, let’s take a look at the three biggest things I’ll be watching when these two teams take the field on Sunday.

1.) How will the Chargers defense attack a weak interior protection for the Dolphins?​

The Chargers just got an influx of speed and athleticism in their pass rush room by trading for Ravens edge rusher Odafe Oweh this week. The former first-round pick is a 6’5, 265-pound flash off the edge who is, despite being off to a rough start this year, gets an excellent opportunity to find his groove versus a porous Dolphins pass protection.

Per Pro Football Focus, three of the Dolphins’ starting offensive linemen have a pass block grade below 50.0. In particular, offense guard Jonah Savaiinaea has a pass block grade of 0.0 (!!!!). Yes, that is correct. If 60.0 is an average grade, how bad can this one player be? If that tells me anything, it’s that the Chargers need to use a variety of stunts and twists to get a mismatch on him and just cause a bout of confusion as often as possible.

Without using stunts, the edge rushers should be able to still take advantage of offensive tackle Larry Borom who has a pass block grade of 45.8 on the year and has allowed a team-high two sacks (the same as Savaiinaea).

No other player on the team besides Tuli Tuipulotu (27) has more than eight pressures on the year. Oweh, while playing in a decreased role through five weeks for the Ravens, still has 12. I’m looking forward to seeing if he can hit the ground running this weekend.

2.) How will Hassan Haskins/Kimani Vidal maximize this opportunity against the league’s worst run defense?​

Entering Week Six, the Dolphins currently rank dead last in rushing defense as they have allowed an average of 174.2 yards per game on the ground. For the team that just lost their starting running back for at least four games, this is an excellent opportunity for the team’s backups to find a groove and some confidence while they attempt to keep the running game afloat in the meantime.

However, this all sounds great until you consider the state of the offensive line. Current starters Trey Pipkins and Jamaree Salyer have both haven’t practice this week as of Friday morning. There’s a chance the Chargers will be down to third and fourth-stringers at the majority of positions up front. If that’s the case, only God would seemingly be able to help this pass protection and run game.

3.) How will the Chargers tighten up their self-inflicted wounds with even more new faces?​

As of Friday’s practice, the Chargers were going to have yet another new face along the offensive line as newly-signed offensive tackle Bobby Hart was getting first-team reps while Trey Pipkins remained sidelined for the third consecutive practice. Thankfully Mekhi Becton is back at right guard, but Austin Deculus is once again set to handle blindside duties.

Over the past two games, Herbert has been abused at a very high clip while the Chargers have been flagged 24 total times. It’s not insane to think that the Chargers should 5-0 if it wasn’t for the penalties that have derailed many a promising drive.

Veteran Bobby Hart is getting the start at right tackle. It will be his first game as a member of the Chargers. He’s only been with the team a little over two weeks. There’s a chance he is not up to speed enough to keep the offense churning efficiently. I wouldn’t be surprised if he is flagged for a false start at least once on Sunday.

If the Chargers do not want to be a team of excuses, they’ll have to show us this week that no matter who is on the field that they are prepared, disciplined, and well-coached.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...dolphins-attack-attack-attack-the-quarterback

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Thursday Open Thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Odafe Oweh feels he’s in the perfect place after being traded to Chargers (Chargers.com)

Check out the first injury report of Week Six for the Chargers (Chargers.com)

Here’s an updated look at the current 53-man roster for the Chargers (Chargers Wire)

It’s not likely Alvin Kamara ends up in powder blue (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Which 3-2 teams have the best chance of making the playoffs? (NFL.com)

The Jaguars and Browns swapped cornerbacks, along with draft picks (NFL.com)

Predicting the biggest overreactions in Week Six of the NFL season (CBS Sports)

The Bengals will start Joe Flacco against the Packers this week (ESPN)

Desmond Watson proud of weight loss, won’t disclose how much was lost (Pro Football Talk)

The Jets and Raiders each grab a quarterback in this new 2026 mock draft (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...873/chargers-daily-links-thursday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers snap losing streak on late field goal vs. Dolphins

The Los Angeles Chargers are heading back home victorious after a big 29-27 win against the Miami Dolphins in Week 6 at Hard Rock Stadium.

The Chargers surrendered the lead with less than a minute to go after Dolphins veteran tight end Darren Waller scored a touchdown to give Miami a one-point lead.

From there, quarterback Justin Herbert led a game-winning drive that got the Chargers into scoring territory when he found wide receiver Ladd McConkey on a wild catch and run to get to the red zone.

LADD MCCONKEY ARE YOU KIDDING ME??

HERBERT, HOW DID HE STAY UP??

WHAT A FREAKING GAME pic.twitter.com/SWwVjX4Wf0

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) October 12, 2025

McConkey’s catch gave him 100 yards on the day, while Herbert had 264 passing yards and two touchdowns.

The win snaps a two-game losing streak for the Chargers, who began the season with a 3-0 record.

The Chargers will be back in action in Week 7 when they take on Daniel Jones, Jonathan Taylor and the Indianapolis Colts at SoFi Stadium.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-losing-streak-on-late-field-goal-vs-dolphins

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers DB Elijah Molden exits game vs. Dolphins

Los Angeles Chargers defensive back Elijah Molden is receiving attention from the medical staff after suffering a hand injury in Week 6 against the Miami Dolphins.

injury update: Elijah Molden (hand) is questionable to return. #LACvsMIA

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 12, 2025

In the second quarter, Molden combined on a tackle of Dolphins tight end Darren Waller with linebacker Daiyan Henley, resulting in him exiting the game.

The Chargers hope Molden can return to the game because he is one of the key members of the secondary. Molden was dealing with a hamstring injury that held him out for Weeks 2 and 3, but he returned and has played in the last two games for the Chargers.

Molden’s exit against the Dolphins will thrust RJ Mickens higher in the depth chart, while players like Tony Jefferson, Tarheeb Still, Cam Hart and Derwin James Jr. will be asked to contribute a little more.

The Chargers are trailing 10-9 against the Dolphins midway through the second quarter in Miami.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...rgers-cb-elijah-molden-exits-game-vs-dolphins

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers open up as betting favorites ahead of Week 7 vs. Colts

The Los Angeles Chargers are hoping to continue their winning ways as they take on the Indianapolis Colts in Week 7.

The Colts are going into the game with a 5-1 record, which is the best mark in the AFC, but the Chargers are going into the game as a favorite against the Colts. FanDuel Sportsbook lists the Chargers as a 1.5-point favorite over the Colts.

The Chargers snapped a three-game losing streak in Week 6 by kicking a game-winning field goal in the final seconds to beat the Miami Dolphins.

The Colts are coming off of a close win against the Arizona Cardinals at home, but failed to win against the spread.

This won’t be an easy game for the Chargers, especially with offensive tackle Joe Alt potentially on the sidelines for another week. The offensive line has taken a beating over the past few weeks, but things could be looking up after their win against the Dolphins.

If the Chargers are going to win, quarterback Justin Herbert will have to play like he did against the Dolphins. He completed a season-high 76.3 percent of passes for 264 yards and two touchdowns. His final major play, a pass to wide receiver Ladd McConkey, helped the Chargers pull out the big win.

“That play will be burning in my mind until they throw dirt over top of me,” Harbaugh said via ESPN insider Kris Rhim.

Kickoff between the Colts and Chargers is set for Sunday at 1:05 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the game on CBS or stream it on Paramount Plus.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...as-betting-favorites-ahead-of-week-7-vs-colts

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Best and worst PFF grades from Chargers-Dolphins: Secondary stands out in narrow victory

The Chargers survived the Dolphins 29-27 on Sunday afternoon thanks to some late-game heroics by the offense.

Roster-wise, it was the worst-looking outing for the Chargers this year. They were playing their fifth and sixth offensive tackles, their third and fourth-string running backs, and were without top wideout Quentin Johnston. Still, they found a way to get back in the win column.

How was that hard-fought and gritty win reflected in the grades from Pro Football Focus this week? Let’s go ahead and find out!

Offense​

Best (min. 20 snaps)

WR Ladd McConkey – 79.3
WR Tre’ Harris – 68.9
RB Hassan Haskins – 66.6
QB Justin Herbert – 66.0
RB Kimani Vidal – 62.4

McConkey has been on a tear the past two games, called-back punt return touchdown or not. He led the way for the Chargers to get into field goal range with a nifty juke on a Dolphins defender before racing 40+ yards. Rookie Tre’ Harris also had a decent day, catching a career-high four passes for 27 yards.

It was a career day for Kimani Vidal who rushed for 124 yards on 18 carries. He also caught a short touchdown when the Chargers needed every point they could find to win in Miami.

Worst

OG Mekhi Becton – 37.6
OT Bobby Hart – 37.7
TE/FB Tucker Fisk – 46.0
C Bradley Bozeman – 49.3
OT Austin Deculus – 50.1

The right side of the line was simply atrocious. The thing is, Hart at least has an excuse since he hasn’t played in a NFL game in several years. Becton? He was pretty bad across the board. His run block grade of 34.9 was the worst on the team and his 49.3 pass block grade was second worst among offensive linemen.

Both Bradley Bozeman and Austin Deculus each let up four pressures to the Dolphins. If Bozeman’s pace continues, he’ll be the first center since 2019 to allow 40 or more pressures in a season.

Defense​

Best

CB Benjamin St-Juste – 82.3
S Tony Jefferson – 74.6
S Derwin James – 71.7
S Elijah Molden – 71.5
CB Donte Jackson – 71.4

St-Juste had some rough plays in coverage, but he made up for them with an interception of Tua Tagovailoa that helped swing momentum in the Chargers’ favor. Jefferson also picked off his second pass of the season on Miami’s first drive of the game when a pass bounced off the hands of wideout Jaylen Waddle.

In the team’s first game after trading away Alohi Gilman to the Ravens, it’s nice to see all three of their top safeties make it inside the top five this week.

Worst

EDGE Odafe Oweh – 36.6
LB Troy Dye – 44.0
EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 46.6
DT Otito Ogbonnia – 57.4
DT Jamaree Caldwell – 57.9

Oweh had a rough first game with the Chargers, mainly as a tackler and run stopper. He finished with four pressures (led team) with one tackle for loss and his first sack of the season. However, a 27.2 tackling grade 31.1 in run defense really sunk his overall mark.

Tuipulotu posted a 29.2 in run defense (worst on the team) and this is now the second consecutive outing in which he’s been in the bottom five. Both games (WAS, MIA) have involved the defense being gashed on outside runs and Tuli’s simply having a hard time setting the edge as of late. He’s getting washed inside far too often and it’s putting the defense in a bad spot.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...lphins-secondary-stands-out-in-narrow-victory

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers-Colts Wednesday Injury Report: Joe Alt DNP, Khalil Mack limited

The first injury report of Week Seven is the largest of the 2025 season thus far for the Chargers. In all, 14 names grace the report. There are five DNPS, six limiteds, and three players with full designation.

Those who sat out Wednesday include wideout Keenan Allen (veteran’s rest day), offensive tackle Joe Alt (ankle), linebacker Troy Dye (thumb), safety Elijah Molden (thumb), and offensive tackle Trey Pipkins (knee).

Players who were limited on Wednesday were returner Derius Davis (knee), linebacker Daiyan Henley (groin), safety Derwin James (veteran’s rest day/wrist), wideout Quentin Johnston (hamstring), edge rusher Khalil Mack (elbow), and offensive guard Jamaree Salyer (knee).

The full participants were linebacker Denzel Perryman (ankle), fullback Scott Matlock (ankle), and edge rusher Kyle Kennard (knee).

wednesday’s #INDvsLAC injury report pic.twitter.com/NjxsvXTwaJ

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 15, 2025

As of now, it looks like Mack will make his return this week against the Colts. That’s amazing news. Unfortunately, however, it looks like Joe Alt may still be a week away from returning from the high ankle sprain he suffered against the Broncos in Week Three.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...injury-report-joe-alt-dnp-khalil-mack-limited

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers open 21-day window for EDGE Khalil Mack to return from IR

Reinforcements are coming for the Chargers defense.

Per head coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are opening the 21-day window for Khalil Mack to return from IR. After suffering a dislocated elbow against the Raiders in Week Two, the veteran pass rusher has now missed the requisite four games to be eligible to return.

Once back, Mack will pair with both Tuli Tuipulotu and newly-acquired Odafe Oweh to make up the new pass rush for the Chargers. Oweh had a sack in his first game with the Bolts this past Sunday and now fans can look forward to new potential defensive packages that feature all three players rushing the passer at once.

#Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh told reporters that the team is opening the 21-day window for Khalil Mack (dislocated elbow) to return from IR. He has three weeks to be activated.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 15, 2025

When Mack returns, veteran Bud Dupree and youngster Caleb Murphy are likely to take backseats again on defense. Murphy will continue to be a stud on special teams, but Dupree will likely fill in as EDGE4 from here on.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...window-for-edge-khalil-mack-to-return-from-ir

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Reacts Survey Week 7: How confident are you feeling?

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Chargers fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

Heading into Week 7, we want to know how you’re feeling after watching the team so far this year. Every week of the season we will ask fans if they are confident the team is headed in the right direction and more of the most pressing questions facing the coming game. Let us know what you think!

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/ge...s-survey-week-7-how-confident-are-you-feeling

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers land new RB, OL in 2 new trade scenarios in exchange for future late-round picks

The Chargers need help at two positions that were NOT expected to be both this banged up and underwhelming through the first six weeks of the season. After entering the year with two RB1s and All Pro-level players at both offensive tackle spots, the Chargers are now trotting out their third and fourth-string backs along with their fifth and sixth offensive tackles of the young season.

Due to this dire situation, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell has come up with two trades that he believes the Chargers should make, along with 11 others he wants to see before the league’s deadline next month.

The first of the two involves the Chargers trading a 2027 sixth-round pick to the Browns in exchange for running back Jerome Ford and a 2027 seventh-rounder. Ford is currently being used as Cleveland’s passing down back and currently has just 73 yards (and 20 carries) on the year. Due to the Browns’ drafting of Quinshon Judkins, Ford has seen his production plummet tremendously despite racking up almost 1,400 yards and seven touchdowns over the past two seasons.

“Ford’s due only $1.2 million over the rest of 2025, and he has averaged a respectable 4.4 yards per carry as a pro, often with dismal passing attacks,” says Barnwell. “As a veteran back who can soak up meaningful touches now and complement Hampton after the rookie returns, Ford fits the sort of profile the Chargers would be looking to add via trade. The Browns would need to find another back to help absorb some of the pass-down workload behind Judkins, but the draft picks are worth more to Cleveland than guys who are going to help their 2025 roster.”

With Hampton out indefinitely, adding a cheap option with proven production as a complementary back would be extremely ideal for the Chargers.

As for the second trade, Barnwell proposes that the Chargers send the Giants a 2028 sixth-round pick in exchange for offensive tackle/guard Evan Neal and a 2028 seventh-round pick. Neal is a former top-10 pick in the draft out of Alabama who has simply not found a stride with the Giants. He transitioned to guard this past offseason but that has not gone as well as they hoped and he’s been inactive the entire 2025 season.

“Neal’s owed only $666,667 over the remainder of the season, so he wouldn’t be an expensive option for a team that needs a backup offensive lineman, most likely at tackle. We’re not that far removed from Neal looking like a potential franchise tackle at Alabama, and there should be teams with optimistic scouting reports on him from his college days willing to take something close to a free look at the 25-year-old.”

Neal is still very young by all accounts with plenty of tread left on the tires. Sending a future pick for the chance to turn Neal’s career around and possibly gain a higher draft pick via the compensatory formula is something Joe Hortiz should not overlook.

So, what do you all think of these two potential trades for the Chargers? Yay or nay? Let us know all of your thoughts below!

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...arios-in-exchange-for-future-late-round-picks

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers-Colts Final Injury Report: Joe Alt doubtful vs. Indy

The Chargers are looking to get back some reinforcements just in time to face the 5-1 Colts on Sunday, but unfortunately it won’t be everybody that’s sorely been missing from the field.

Per the team’s final injury designations, right tackle Trey Pipkins will once again be sidelined with a knee injury. After some minor hope of a return this week, left Joe Alt enters the weekend as doubtful along with safety Elijah Molden.

As for those expected to return to the field this week after missing time, returner Derius Davis, pass rusher Khalil Mack, linebacker Denzel Perryman, and offensive guard Jamaree Salyer are all listed as questionable.

Both Mack and Perryman would be returning from IR to play for the first time since Week Two and One, respectively. Another name not on the final report because he’s expected to be all the way back is wide receiver Quentin Johnston who missed last week’s game with a hamstring injury.

#Chargers game status

OUT: Trey Pipkins

DOUBTFUL: Joe Alt, Elijah Molden

QUESTIONABLE: Derius Davis, Troy Dye, Khalil Mack, Denzel Perryman, Jamaree Salyer

Everyone not listed comes off the report.

— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) October 17, 2025

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-final-injury-report-joe-alt-doubtful-vs-indy

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

3 things to watch for in Chargers-Colts: How does one simply stop Jonathan Taylor?

The 4-2 Chargers are welcoming the 5-1 Colts into SoFi Stadium this Sunday. It’s also going to be a little welcome home party for Colts head coach Shane Steichen who was the first offensive coordinator for Justin Herbert when he entered the NFL in 2020. Since then, both have enjoyed successful careers in their own right and I’m sure it’ll be a fun pre-game meeting between the two full of nostalgia.

Aside from the obvious connections between these two teams, there’s also plenty of good football to be had. Colts running back Jonathan Taylor currently leads the league in both rushing yards and touchdowns while Indy is averaging the most points per game in the NFL.

On the other side, there’s Herbert and some pretty impressive pass catchers at his disposal. There’s truly a chance this may be one of the most entertaining games on the Week Seven slate.

With that said, here are three things I’ll be watching closely when these two teams take the field on Sunday!

1.) Chargers defense must exploit weaknesses up front for Colts​

The Colts offense has been propelled by their rushing attack. If you take a look at their Pro Football Focus grades in that area, you’ll see fairly high marks across the board for their front five. However, their best lineman — left guard Quenton Nelson — has the team’s best run block grade paired with the worst pass block grade. The discrepancy is actually quite large as his pass block grade of 90.5 is over 40 grade points higher than his mark of 49.5 in pass pro.

The weakness doesn’t just stop there, luckily. Center Tanor Bortolini is also below average in pass blocking on the year with a grade of 57.5.

This may end up being a game where Teair Tart has to carry the pass rush along the interior on a level he hasn’t had to this year. He tops the entire Chargers defense with a 75.3 pass rush grade and the unit as a whole will only get better if Khalil Mack returns. I say let’s scheme up the best to stunt and twist inside to make this a long day for Daniel Jones.

2.) How in the world will the Chargers stop Jonathan Taylor and the Colts rushing attack?​

Well, for starters, getting Mack back would be a massive help. The Chargers have been gashed on outside runs over the past two weeks and there aren’t many defenders better at setting an edge than Mack.

For whatever reason, both the Dolphins and Commanders found a hole in the armor of Los Angeles’ run defense that got them an advantageous matchup when running outside the tackle. Using motions, they brought defenders from one side to the other when the Bolts were in man coverage. They consistently forced Tuli Tuipulotu or Derwin James to be the edge defenders and for whatever reason or call, they kept allowing themselves to be sealed far too easy.

I don’t have the specific scheme adjustments or anything along those lines, but there’s simply no way those plays can stay the same going forward. It was bad when the Commaders ran outside at will. It was even worse when the Dolphins exploited the same thing.

The Chargers defense is about to face the best running back they’ve seen all season. They better buckle up their chin straps and stay on top of their business or it will be a very, very long day for all of them.

3.) Bolts can exploit weak coverage in the middle​

Colts linebacker Zaire Franklin has made a name for himself in recent years as a vacuum for tackles. However, he’s having a rough go of things in coverage so far through six weeks.

His current coverage grade of 39.9 is the second worst on the entire team after cornerback Xavien Howard (34.2) retired just a few weeks ago. He’s allowed over two-thirds of targets his way to be completed (22-of-31) for 198 yards. Of that total, 133 of them are also after the catch, meaning he’s getting caught slipping and pass-catchers are able to run away from him a bit.

In this scenario, let’s see what mismatches the Chargers can get with the likes of Ladd McConkey and Ordonde Gadsden II. The latter is coming off a career-high in both catches and yards while McConkey just recorded his first 100-yard game of the season.

Let’s get the Colts linebacker moving laterally and see what the Chargers’ best athletes can do with the ball in their hands.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...olts-how-does-one-simply-stop-jonathan-taylor

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

5 Questions with Stampede Blue: Colts wants to stop Justin Herbert and score a ton of points

This week we are joined by Chris Shepherd of our Colts sister site, Stampede Blue, to help us preview this week’s matchup against Indianapolis.

Despite the lack of (any) preseason hype revolving around the team in Indy due to their quarterback situation, it has somehow ended up being one of their biggest strengths. Daniel Jones is playing the best football of his career and he’s a major player in why the Colts are 5-1.

Before we go to far, let’s go ahead and jump right in! Enjoy!

1.) The Colts have been ON FIRE offensively behind Daniel Jones and his resurgent season at quarterback. Having Jonathan Taylor running the football helps too, but no team has this level of success without a good quarterback leading the huddle. How has Jones found so much success so soon in Indy? What can you attribute it all to thus far?

The first thing I would point to is just how good Shane Steichen has been. Steichen seemingly has built in an answers for anything a defense throw at Jones on every single play he calls. He’s giving Jones easy choices and wide open receivers, consistently.

Secondly, the Colts offensive roster is really good. The offensive line is probably a top 10 unit, Jonathan Taylor is playing like the best back in the league, Michael Pittman Jr isn’t a superstar but he’s a tough, dependable reciver who consistently makes catches through contact, breaks tackles and gets surprising yards after the catch, Alec Pierce is seemingly uncoverable once he’s 15 to 20 yards down field and rookie tight end Tyler Warren is the most complete, pro ready, tight end i can remember watching. Daniel Jones has been really good this year and he might be the worst starter on the offense.

The third thing is Jones himself deserves credit. My first two points are true, but we saw this offense with guys like Richardson, Minshew, Richardson (again), Flacco and Richardson (again, again) and the rosters were similarly strong with those guys playing QB and it was nothing like this. Jones’ preparation is quickly becoming a story in Indy. Peyton Manning’s film study was the stuff of legend and in the six months he’s been in town Daniel Jones film study habits are already being talked about in a very similar way. It’s possible that the Giants were just so awful from top to bottom, that Daniel Jones was always better than anyone thought.

2.) This team is scoring a lot of points but it also helps when your defense is allowing nearly two touchdowns less than what the offense is putting up. What makes this team so stingy on defense?

I’d love to wax poetic about the construction of the defense the same way I just did the offense but I can’t. The fact of the matter is the Colts point differential is so good for two reasons:

1.) The offense scores a ton of points

And

2.) The Colts have played games this year against the Dolphins and Raiders.

That’s really it. They beat the Titans by 21 points but Tennessee still scored 20 points. Outside of those three games they have a 1 point win (Broncos) a 7 point loss (Rams) and a 4 point win (Cardinals).

3.) If you were Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman, how would you attempt to attack this Colts defense? Which matchups/players would you try and exploit?

The first thing to know is the Colts have a really strong interior defensive line. DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart are going to make things tough for my interior offensive line. The next thing to know the Colts are so injured at cornerback Greg Roman probably doesn’t even know the names of the guys who will be on the field for Indy this weekend.

We can’t let Grover Stewart murder Bradley Bozeman on live television but we can’t afford not to double team Buckner, either. With those things in mind I’m dialing up quick hitters with plenty of designed RAC opportunities. Make Indy play tight coverage (they can’t) and make them prove the can tackle after the catch (not as bad as their coverage, but still not good).

4.) If you were Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, how would you go about stopping this Colts offense? Which players would you have to put a cap on early and often?

If I’m Jesse Minter I’m just glad my team is 4-2 and no matter what happens this weekend, nobody’s getting fired. After I finished feeling good about that, I would call the league office and ask for an emergency repeal of the 1978 rule change regarding illegal contact beyond five yards. Assuming the NFL went with my suggestion of rolling that nearly 50 year old rule, I would just load the box and take Jonathan Taylor away, while instructing my corners and safeties to just beat the Indy receivers to death running down the field next to them.

If the league doesn’t repeal that rule, then I hope Ad Mitchell will play a big role and take two different Colts touchdowns away from two really dumb plays (that’s a week four reference), because so far Ad Mitchell fumbling and holding have been the only things that have limited this Colts offense so far.

It’s just so hard to stop. Take away the run? Fine. Cover five good receiving options running routes designed by a premiere play caller, then. Keep the box light to take away those receiving options and the leagues leading rusher will gash you.

The only thing I’d feel good about the Colts if I’m Minter is that Indy slot receiver Josh Downs is going to miss this week’s game with a concussion and Ad Mitchell is likely going to get a lot of burn.

So you know, the Chargers defense might have a chance after all.

5.) Go ahead and give us a few lines on how you see this game shaking out in Los Angeles and make sure to top it all off with a final score prediction.

Justin Herbert is going to have a big day statistically despite being battered by the Colts defensive line.

Jonathan Taylor is going to have a big day running the ball for Indy.

Ultimately I expect to be very disappointed with the Colts defense while the offense scores a hundred points.

Final Score: Chargers 31, Colts 34

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...stop-justin-herbert-and-score-a-ton-of-points