News Chargers Team Notes

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Chargers-Steelers prediction thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Here’s how the Chargers are preparing to face Aaron Rodgers (Chargers.com)

Why Khalil Mack’s leadership is indispensable for the Chargers defense (Chargers.com)

Reasons why the Chargers could lose to the Steelers in Week 10 (Chargers Wire)

Is Browns RB Jerome Ford upset the Chargers did not trade for him? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Why the Broncos aren’t a real threat in the AFC (Sports Illustrated)

Antonio Brown is being extradited from Dubai following a shooting at a celebrity boxing match in May (ESPN)

Rome Odunze says his dad’s shots at the Bears offense is not indicative of his feelings (ESPN)

Takeaways from the Broncos defeating the Raiders on Thursday Night Football (CBS Sports)

What we learned from the Broncos taking care of the Raiders on Thursday Night (NFL.com)

Geno Smith felt like he could tough out his injury against the Broncos (Pro Football Talk)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...ily-links-chargers-steelers-prediction-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Talk about Steelers vs. Chargers right here with your fellow fans!

Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Los Angeles Chargers, November 9, 2025, 5:20 p.m. PT​

Location: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CA

Broadcast: NBC, Peacock

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The Los Angeles Chargers face a big matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers on a national stage with Sunday Night Football.

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BTFB community, this is your thread for today’s game against the Steelers. Enjoy!

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-vs-chargers-right-here-with-your-fellow-fans

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Keenan Allen makes Chargers history in win vs. Steelers

The Los Angeles Chargers are celebrating for many reasons after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers 25-10 in Week 10’s edition of Sunday Night Football at SoFi Stadium.

Not only are the Chargers happy after a win, but wide receiver Keenan Allen surpassed tight end Antonio Gates for the most receptions in franchise history with 956. Allen caught a pass from quarterback Justin Herbert on a quick dump-off on the final offensive possession to achieve the feat.

Before that, the Chargers were dominant in their victory against the Steelers, holding them to a mere field goal before the final minutes of the game. It took a while for the offense to get going, but once it did, the team was able to put their foot on the gas.

Herbert threw for 220 yards and a touchdown while Kimani Vidal ran for 95 yards and a score on the ground.

The Chargers are now 7-3 heading into Week 11 on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...len-makes-chargers-history-in-win-vs-steelers

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers open up as betting favorites ahead of Week 11 vs. Jaguars

The Los Angeles Chargers are trying to grab another win in Week 11 as they take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in the Sunshine State.

The Chargers are coming off of a 25-10 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 10’s edition of Sunday Night Football, but a new week awaits with the Jaguars on deck. FanDuel Sportsbook lists the Chargers as a 2.5-point favorite over the Jaguarrs.

The Jaguars are coming into the game with a chip on their shoulder after losing to the Houston Texans despite having a 19-point lead in the fourth quarter against backup quarterback Davis Mills.

The Chargers are going into the game in need of a win in order to keep pace in the AFC West standings. The Chargers are one game behind the Denver Broncos for first place in the division while the Kansas City Chiefs sit at 5-4, two games back of Los Angeles.

A win going into the Week 12 bye would give the Chargers a lot of momentum going into the stretch run of the season, giving them a chance to win their first division title since 2009, when the team called San Diego home.

The Chargers and Jaguars are both in the playoff picture in the AFC as wild cards, so this game has high stakes for both teams.

Kickoff between the Chargers and Jaguars is set for Sunday at 10 a.m. PT from EverBank Stadium. Fans can watch the game on CBS or stream it on the Paramount Plus app.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...betting-favorites-ahead-of-week-11-vs-jaguars

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Best and worst PFF grades from Chargers-Steelers: Youngsters lead way over PIT on Sunday Night Football

The Chargers won handedly in an ugly game over the Steelers on Sunday Night Football. Running back Kimani Vidal posted another game of over 100 yards of offense while safety R.J. Mickens recorded his second interception this season. Wideout Ladd McConkey was also top amongst pass-catchers with a season-high 107 yards and a touchdown on four catches.

Behind these youngsters, the Chargers turned a dismal game into one of their best victories this year just one week after Pittsburgh beat the Colts whom walloped the Bolts just a few week prior.

Let’s go ahead and see how the Chargers graded out in this week’s victory.

Offense​

Best (min. 20 snaps)

RB Kimani Vidal – 77.2
WR Ladd McConkey – 71.3
TE Tyler Conklin – 65.5
OT Trey Pipkins – 61.3
WR Quentin Johnston – 61.2

Vidal put together another performance with over 100 yards of offense and it helped bleed the clock all night long in a lopsided win over the Steelers. He did not break off many explosives, but his consistent gains of six, seven, and eight yards were key in keeping the Steelers off the field.

McConkey turned a short catch into a 58-yard gain in the second half which was the longest play of the night. The Bolts score two plays later to help put Pittsburgh away for good.

Pipkins finished top among offensive linemen with a 73.9 pass block grade.

Worst

OT Austin Deculus – 35.1
TE Oronde Gadsden II – 37.0
TE/FB Tucker Fisk – 44.0
OG Mekhi Becton – 48.0
QB Justin Herbert – 50.5

Deculus finished with a pass block and run block grade below 40.0. He also allowed four pressures and remains one of the worst linemen for the Chargers whenever he plays.

Gadsden dropped multiple passes he got both hands on which certainly sunk his grade.

Becton led the Chargers with five sacks allowed and had the team’s worst pass block grade at 36.6.

Herbert threw a few questionable passes and missed some layups we’ve come to expect from him to always be completed. He played clean enough when it mattered, but the early lapses were enough to keep his grade lower than we’re used to seeing.

Defense​

Best

S R.J. Mickens – 85.5
CB Nikko Reed – 79.2
EDGE Odafe Oweh – 77.2
LB Daiyan Henley – 75.7
CB Donte Jackson – 71.7

Mickens picked off his second pass of the year and he’s certainly going to keep this one all the same as the first since it was given to him by Aaron Rodgers. Reed also authored an excellent play on a broken up deep ball that helped stymie the Steelers in the first half. His 79.8 coverage grade was tops among all defensive backs.

Oweh did not record a sack but he was instrumental in the pass rush effort that brought down Rodger three times and kept him very uncomfortable on third downs.

Henley had a much better game in coverage compared to recent outings. His 80.1 in that category was the best mark for the Chargers from Sunday.

Worst

DT Teair Tart – 38.6
CB Cam Hart – 46.8
S Elijah Molden – 47.2
DT Jamaree Caldwell – 51.5
EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 53.4

Tart finished with a run defense and tackling grade below 30.0 which is pretty egregious. He did have the top pass rush grade on the team, however.

Hart’s grade was mainly brought down to poor grades in run defense and tackling, as well, but I thought he did better in coverage than what PFF gave him (52.2).

Caldwell’s 23.5 in tackling was the worst amongst all Chargers on a day where five Bolts finished below 30.0 in that category.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/los-angeles-chargers-news/61541/__trashed

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

3 winners, 2 losers from Chargers-Steelers: Ladd McConkey stars for Bolts un primetime

The shorthanded Chargers managed to not only beat the Steelers, but they overwhelmed Pittsburgh to the tune of a 25-10 score and two interceptions off future Hall-of-Famer Aaron Rodgers.

Jesse Minter’s defense was stellar as they made the veteran quarterback uncomfortable all night long and were at their best when their best was needed, specifically in the red zone with their backs up against the wall.

It was a fun game to watch in the end, but you had to make it through a rather ugly start for both teams.

Below are my three winners and two losers from the Chargers’ latest victory!

Winners​

WR Ladd McConkey

McConkey caught four passes for 107 yards and a touchdown for the Chargers to help put away the Steelers in primetime. His 58-yard catch-and-run was the longest play of the day for either team and it directly led to one of LA’s touchdowns when Kimani Vidal bowled into the end zone two plays later.

McConkey has three touchdowns and over 400 yards receiving over his last five games and it’s no surprise the Bolts are 4-1 over that span. He’s played a big part in the Chargers offense staying afloat despite the injuries.

RB Kimani Vidal

For the third time over the past five games, Vidal has totaled over 100 yards of offense while also finding the end zone. Against the Steelers, he didn’t have to break any long runs to keep the Chargers offense churning. Consistent gains of six, seven, and eight yards was just what the doctor ordered for an ugly game between two AFC squads who were looking to boost their resumes for the postseason.

Omarion Hampton isn’t expected to return, at the earliest, until after the team’s Week 12 bye, which means Vidal has at least one more game to start before the first-rounder is back. If he puts together another strong outing, the coaching staff may be forced to split carries more than they initially planned to.

EDGE Khalil Mack

Mack had one of the plays of the night when he forced Aaron Rodgers to exit the pocket backwards into the end zone before sacking the quarterback for a massive safety early in the game. He finished with three pressures in all and made his presence felt once again in the trenches.

Losers​

OT Austin Deculus

Deculus somehow won the starting left tackle job against the Steelers over Jamaree Salyer in Week 10 before going on to be the team’s lowest-ranked player on offense via Pro Football Focus with a 35.1 overall game grade. His run block grade of 37.1 was the worst among the starting five linemen and his 39.8 in pass blocking was somehow just the third worst. Still, when you consider that a 60.0 is an average grade, it shows you just how underwhelming he was.

Entering Week 10, he was 13th in pressures allowed by offensive tackles (despite only playing four full games) and proceeded to allow four more to the Steelers on Sunday night.

OG Mekhi Becton

Becton ended Sunday night allowing a team-high five pressures to the Steelers, including a sack. His 36.6 pass block grade from PFF was the worst on the team and he was also called for a penalty.

The giant right guard has been in and out of the lineup all year with various injuries and it’s been tough to watch in a year where the Chargers already lost their two best linemen. Becton was supposed to help reinforce the interior, but he’s often been sidelined for one reason or another and even when healthy, he hasn’t been all that great as of late.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...rs-ladd-mcconkey-stars-for-bolts-un-primetime

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Power Rankings Roundup: Bolts continue surge upwards with recent win

The Chargers won their third game in a row by beating the Steelers 25-10 in a Sunday Night Football matchup that featured some ugly play from both teams, but the Bolts defense ended up playing a key role in limiting Aaron Rodgers to one of his worst performances of the season.

If the Chargers and Jesse Minter’s defense can continue to play up to this level the rest of the way, their chances at the postseason will see a huge boost, especially if they can get into their by at 8-3.

With that said, let’s go ahead and see where the Chargers landed this week amongst the media’s various power rankings!

Pro Football Talk – #8

They’re weathering the injuries pretty well.” – Mike Florio

Sports Illustrated – #9

“Jim Harbaugh on Justin Herbert, who appeared to be limping after Sunday’s win over Pittsburgh: “I do have an update on his physical status. He’s still a beast.” – Conor Orr

ESPN – #10

“The Chargers are 5-1 when Mack plays and 2-2 when he’s out. At 34, his presence changes the way this defense performs. Opposing offenses have to account for Mack with chip blocks and double-teams, and he makes this defense one of the league’s best at stopping the run. He has four sacks in his six games, including one for a safety Sunday night.”- Kris Rhim

Bleacher Report – #10

“The talk in Los Angeles this week centered mostly on the Chargers’ issues up front. Joe Alt and fellow tackle Rashawn Slater have been felled by season-ending injuries.”

“Justin Herbert has been pressured as much as any quarterback in the NFL this year, and the Pittsburgh Steelers got home against the Bolts five times on Sunday night.”

“Thanks to an offensive game plan that featured a lot of quick passes, though, the running of Kimani Vidal and another stout defensive effort, the Chargers are 7-3 and just beat a first-place team with relative ease.”

“They have a pair of winnable games sandwiched around an off week up next—it’s not hard to imagine this team being 9-3 and in the mix for the AFC’s No. 1 seed when it hosts the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 14.” -Gary Davenport

USA Today – #11

“Los Angeles’ depleted line is eventually going to get Justin Herbert smashed into tiny pieces, but Sunday night’s quick-hit strategy subdued the Steelers with incredible Thursday night vibes. More importantly, an iffy pass rush rose up to make Aaron Rodgers uncomfortable and leave Pittsburgh without a touchdown until garbage time, locking in a reassuring win.” — Christian D’Andrea

Yahoo Sports – #12

“The Chargers’ defense will keep them viable, even if the injured offensive line has a tough time protecting Justin Herbert. The Chargers have allowed 197 yards per game over their last three. Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter seems very likely to have a head coaching job next season.” – Frank Schwab

CBS Sports – #12

“The defense showed up in a big way against the Steelers. With the offensive line an issue now with injuries, they might need a lot more of that down the stretch.” – Pete Prisco

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-bolts-continue-surge-upwards-with-recent-win

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers vs. Jaguars By The Numbers: Trevor Lawrence doing it all for JAX

The Jaguars have been as much of an up-and-down team as anyone this year. They boast a win over the Kansas City Chiefs, but they’re coming off a loss to the Texans in which they owned a multi-touchdown lead late in the game. They also just lost two-way player Travis Hunter to a season-ending injury.

Still, with a 5-4 record, they’ll be motivated to stay afloat in the quest for a playoff spot, and maybe even an AFC South crown if the Colts find a way to stumble too much.

The Chargers, on the other hand, are coming off a dominant win over the Steelers on Sunday Night Football. They’ll still as banged up as ever, even more so with tight end Oronde Gadsden leaving the game early. However, the defense showed they’re willing to step up to the challenge in order to help the offense get by.

With that said, here’s a quick screenshot of how these two teams fare on paper thus far into the season.

Let’s dive in!

Chargers Offense​

Total yards per game: 368.5 (8th)
Points per game: 24.0 (14th)
Passing yards per game: 245.4 (7th)
Rushing yards per game: 123.1 (10th)

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Top Performers

Passing: QB Justin Herbert – 2,610 passing yards, 19 touchdowns
Rushing yards: RB Kimani Vidal – 404
Rushing touchdowns: RB Omarion Hampton, RB Kimani Vidal – 2
Receiving yards: WR Ladd McConkey – 631
Receptions: WR Keenan Allen – 52
Receiving touchdowns: WR Quentin Johnston – 6

Chargers Defense​

Total yards allowed per game: 280.2 (4th)
Points allowed per game: 20.3 (8th)
Passing yards allowed per game: 174.2 (5th)
Rushing yards allowed per game: 106.0 (13th)

Top Performers

Tackles: LB Daiyan Henley – 67
Tackles for loss: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 11
Sacks: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu – 8
Passes Defended: CB Donte Jackson, CB Cam Hart – 7
Interceptions: 3 players w/ 2
Forced fumbles: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu, DT Teair Tart – 1
Fumble recoveries: DT Teair Tart – 1

Jaguars Offense​

Total yards per game: 324.9 (19th)
Points per game: 22.8 (18th)
Passing yards per game: 204.6 (19th)
Rushing yards per game: 120.3 (14th)

Top Performers

Passing: QB Trevor Lawrence – 1,998 passing yards, 10 touchdowns
Rushing yards: RB Travis Etienne – 656
Rushing touchdowns: QB Trevor Lawrence – 4
Receiving yards: WR Brian Thomas Jr. – 420
Receptions: WR Brian Thomas Jr. – 30
Receiving Touchdowns: WR Parker Washington, TE Hunter Long – 2

Jaguars Defense​

Total yards allowed per game: 344.6 (23rd)
Points allowed per game: 24.4 (20th)
Passing yards allowed per game: 252.9 (28th)
Rushing yards allowed per game: 91.7 (5th)

Top Performers

Tackles: Foye Oluokun – 75
Tackles for loss: Josh Hines-Allen, DT Arik Armstead – 5
Sacks: DT Arik Armstead – 4.5
Passes Defended: CB Jourdan Lewis – 8
Interceptions: LB Devin Lloyd – 4
Forced fumbles: LB Foye Oluokun – 2
Fumble recoveries: 5 players w/ 1

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...-numbers-trevor-lawrence-doing-it-all-for-jax

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Wednesday Open Thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Check out where the Bolts are in the current playoff picture (Chargers.com)

Three Chargers stats you need to know heading into Week 11 (Chargers.com)

Five things to know about this week’s opponent for the Chargers (Chargers Wire)

The Chargers’ playoff chances spiked following their win over the Steelers (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

The Giants plan to start Jameis Winston vs. the Packers (Sports Illustrated)

Jaire Alexander is stepping away from football for now to focus on his physical and mental wellbeing (ESPN)

Asante Samuel Jr. is signing with the Steelers practice squad (ESPN)

Which surprise coaches could be on the hot seat already? (CBS Sports)

Predictions for every remaining game on the 2025 NFL schedule (NFL.com)

The Dolphins expect Chop Robinson to be cleared to play this week (Pro Football Talk)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...35/chargers-daily-links-wednesday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

LA Chargers-Jaguars Injury Report: Keenan Allen, Khalil Mack return to practice

Thursday Injury Report Update​

Wide receiver Keenan Allen, edge rusher Khalil Mack, center Bradley Bozeman, and defensive tackle Teair Tart all returned Thursday as full participants following their veteran rest days. Two other veterans in edge rusher Bud Dupree and linebacker Denzel Perryman were not on Wednesday’s injury report but popped up on Thursday’s report with veteran rest days of their own.

Two players who appeared on Thursday’s report with a real injury were safety Elijah Molden (knee) and fullback Scott Matlock (chest). Those will be two names to watch with one more practice to go before the team travels to Jacksonville.

Aside from those players, there were no players that progressed in their status. Everyone else who practiced in a limited fashion on Wednesday was once again limited on Thursday.

thursday's #LACvsJAX injury report pic.twitter.com/OAJ8IJbifL

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) November 13, 2025

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As prep for Week 11 begins, the Chargers had the most amount of veterans take rest days to begin the week of practice. Normally reserved for the likes of Keenan Allen and Khalil Mack, those two players were joined by defensive tackle Teair Tart and center Bradley Bozeman. Fortunately, the veteran’s with the day off were the only DNP players on the report.

After a brief scare and an early exit for tight end Oronde Gadsden against the Steelers, he logged a full practice on Wednesday despite a knee injury.

Offensive tackle Bobby Hart — who has missed most of the past two games with a knee injury, started this week by logging a limited practice. He was joined by linebacker Daiyan Henley (ankle), wide receiver Quentin Johnston (shin), wide receiver Ladd McConkey (ankle), and cornerback Tarheeb Still (knee) as limited participants.

Still has missed the past two games with his injury, so a limited session to begin the week is a positive step forward to him returning this week. At the same time, I wouldn’t be surprised if the team sided with caution to keep him out just before the Week 12 bye.

wednesday's #LACvsJAX injury report pic.twitter.com/clvYD2LGky

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

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...eport-keenan-allen-khalil-mack-have-rest-days

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Vote: are the Chargers on the rise?

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 11, 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/general/61586/vote-are-the-chargers-on-the-rise

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers-Jaguars Game Preview: Could this be Kimani Vidal’s final start?

The Chargers travel to Jacksonville this week to face the 5-4 Jaguars who are coming off a debilitating loss to the Texans where the latter came back from 26-10 in the fourth quarter.

Los Angeles, on the other hand, is riding the high of downing the Steelers 25-10 on Sunday Night Football.

A win this week would put the Bolts at five games above .500 heading into the bye which is really the best case scenario following some tough games dropped earlier in the year.

There’s a number of storylines in this week’s matchup, let’s go ahead and jump into it. These are the three things I’ll be watching closely when these two teams take the field on Sunday.

1.) Will Kimani Vidal capitalize on what be his final start this season?​

Since Omarion Hampton was placed on IR earlier this year, Vidal has started five games for the Chargers. In three of those games, Vidal has gone over 100 yards of offense and has scored three touchdowns in that span. In all, he’s totaled 386 rushing yards and 53 receiving yards. Behind a patchwork offensive line through most of that time, it’s been very impressive.

Two weeks ago, however, Jim Harbaugh mentioned that the earliest Hampton could return from IR is after the team’s Week 12 bye. While that’s not the most certain response to know when Hampton will actually return, it does potentially tell us when Vidal will be done playing as the lead back. If he does return after the bye then this week could be Vidal’s last start.

And I believe Vidal knows that. I believe he’s going to use that as the best form of motivation to show the coaching staff that they don’t have to overthink the future of the backfield. He wants to be a part of it and that makes me think he’ll turn in one more good performance before his time in the spotlight comes to an end this season.

2.) Jesse Minter must exploit weak links in Jacksonville’s pass protection​

The Chargers pass rush was active early and often against the Steelers to make Aaron Rodgers uncomfortable all day long. They sacked the quarterback three times on the night but made many more plays in terms of forcing incompletions and throwaways.

This weak, the Chargers can once again try and get after the quarterback by exploiting the weak points up front for the Jaguars: Left tackle Walker Little and right guard Patrick Mekari.

Little leads the team with eight sacks and 36 pressures allowed on the season. That is six sacks and 13 more pressures than the next closest lineman. He also has six penalties this year which is second most on the team. He’s far and away the weakest link of the starting five and the trio of Mack, Tuipulotu, and Oweh need to make sure he continues having a rough season,

As for Mekari, he’s second on the team with 23 pressures with one sack let up. However, he leads the team with seven penalties. His 48.9 pass block grade from Pro Football Focus is also the worst on the team by a good bit. Could this be a big game for someone like Teair Tart or Jamaree Caldwell? If they’ve watched the film

3.) Time to exorcise some skeletons in the closet​

The Chargers are winless in their previous two games against the Jaguars. The most recent matchup was their historic meltdown in the playoffs when the team blew a 27-0 lead. The previous game was a 38-10 shellacking earlier the same season at home. For those that don’t recall, that was the game Rashawn Slater tore his biceps.

Los Angeles hasn’t beaten the Jaguars since the 2020 season when they won 39-29 inside SoFi Stadium. They haven’t won at Jacksonville since 2019 when they won handedly 45-10 with Philip Rivers still playing quarterback for the Bolts.

Sunday’s game is a big one for obvious reasons. There’s only nine players left from the team that suffered that playoff defeat and each one of them will be using that memory as motivation. For all the numerous new faces, they’ll surely be made aware of what happened almost three years ago and find their own reason to fight like hell for a victory.

Besides all of that, this win matters for either team’s playoff aspirations, as well. The Chargers are winners of three straight and could move to 8-3 before their Week 12 bye. After that, it’s a game against he hapless Raiders.

Taking care of business this week is simply a must.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...eview-could-this-be-kimani-vidals-final-start

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Chargers-Jaguars prediction thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Here’s how R.J. Mickens has take advantage of his opportunity in recent weeks (Chargers.com)

Check out Thursday’s injury report for Chargers-Jaguars (Chargers.com)

Chargers fans should watch for these storylines during Chargers-Jaguars (Chargers Wire)

The Chargers made a late addition to the injury report on Thursday (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

The NFL is working to eliminate prop bets amid rash of scandals (Sports Illustrated)

Lamar Jackson returned to practice on Thursday (Pro Football Talk)

Antonio Brown was released from jail and now awaits his trial (ESPN)

The Giants’ next coach will decide Jaxson Dart’s fate with the team (CBS Sports)

Check out the latest set of quarterback power rankings (NFL.com)

TreVeyon Henderson scored three touchdowns for the Patriots on Thursday Night Football (NFL.com)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...aily-links-chargers-jaguars-prediction-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers land Ohio State DT in way-too-early 2026 mock draft

The Chargers banked one signing a handful of veteran journeyman along the defensive interior this offseason in hopes of getting the most out of them under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter. While there was some shaky run defense earlier in the year, the group has settled a bit. Still, the Chargers may want to look at further upgrading the position this offseason and that may include using one of their first few picks in next year’s draft.

In a new 2026 mock draft from Pro Football Focus, NFL analyst Trevor Sikkema have the Chargers doing just that by selecting Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald with the 22nd-overall pick.

“The 6-foot-3, 325-pound nose tackle might be a bit one-dimensional, but that one dimension is elite,: He is sporting an elite 91.1 PFF run-defense grade this season. His 6.4% pass-rush win rate points to him being a run stuffer in the NFL, but that is the kind of player the Chargers need in the middle of their defensive line.”

Ohio State DT Kayden McDonald is @PFF's No. 1-rated run defender going into Week 10.

Wouldn't be surprised if he ended up in Round 1 like Tyleik Williams. pic.twitter.com/QZjXzwaPN1

— Marcus Mosher (@Marcus_Mosher) October 31, 2025

Through nine games this season, McDonald has 41 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, and three sacks. In his prior two seasons where he appeared in 20 total contests, he had just two tackles for loss and zero sacks. McDonald has taken his game to the next level in 2025 and his performance for the country’s No. 1 team has got him squarely projected to be a day one pick.

The 6’3, 326-pound defender has excellent size and all the makings of an impact nose tackle at the next level. As Sikkema mentioned above, his run defense is elite and is the trait that will. carry him in the NFL, but his splashes in pushing the pocket and getting into the backfield won’t hurt his stock either.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...hio-state-dt-in-way-too-early-2026-mock-draft

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

5 Questions with Big Cat Country: Chargers TEs could see big day vs. Jaguars

This week we are joined by Gus Logue of our Jaguars sister site, Big Cat Country, to help us preview this week’s matchup between two AFC teams who are in the thick of contending for a postseason appearance. The Bolts are 7-3 after beating the Steelers in Week 10 and the Jaguars dropped to 5-4 after collapsing against the Texans.

The vibes are likely quite different on either side coming into this matchup, but don’t mistake that for a lack of motivation for these teams. The Chargers will be spurred on by the idea of winning four consecutive games heading into their bye while the Jaguars are hungry to get back into the win column and to get this sour taste of defeat out of their mouths.

A big thank you to Gus for helping out us! Let’s go ahead and jump right in!

1.) From an outside perspective, the Jaguars have had an up-and-down season. They’re above .500 on the year with a win over the Chiefs on their resume, but they’re coming off one of the toughest regular season losses in recent memory. What’s the overall vibe around the team right now and how would you paint a picture of the team’s potential the rest of the season?

Liam Coen preached about battling through adversity all offseason, and Sunday is as good a test for that as any. A win over a fellow AFC playoff contender would be a huge momentum swing for this team. Vibes would be very high, especially with a soft schedule ahead and key players set to return from injury soon. The postseason is very much in reach. Players and coaches alike are surely eager to bounce back, and they should get a boost from being back at EverBank Stadium for the first time in over a month.

If the team loses on Sunday — which would be its fourth loss in five games — the locker room vibes could come close to matching that of the fanbase. At this time last week, 90% of our readers were confident in the direction of the team. That figure is now a season-low 59%. Another L would lead to a considerable spike in “2026 mock draft” Google searches out of Northeast Florida.

2.) Jacksonville has both a first-year head coach and a general manager. In their short time with the team thus far, what kind of a job does the fan base believe they’ve done with the team? Have they made more good decisions than bad? How would you describe their philosophy in regards to team building?

Like any fanbase, Jaguars faithful have commended team brass during winning streaks and criticized them amid losing streaks. That’s especially true for general manager James Gladstone. Free agent additions C Robert Hainsey, RG Patrick Mekari, TE Hunter Long, SCB Jourdan Lewis, S Eric Murray, and OLB Dennis Gardeck looked like phenomenal investments to start the season, but Mekari’s play has dropped off, and Long, Lewis, and Murray are all out with injuries.

Gladstone found two nice role players in LeQuint Allen Jr. and S Rayuan Lane III during the seventh round, but No. 2 overall pick WR/CB Travis Hunter and No. 88 pick S Caleb Ransaw are on injured reserve. The team could really use those two. It could also stand to add about a dozen new faces along its defensive line rotation, or whatever the maximum is. Jacksonville’s pass rush, which has the fourth-worst sack rate of any team across the past decade, is unsuccessfully relying on former first-round picks Josh Hines-Allen (2 sacks this year), Travon Walker (2), and Arik Armstead (4.5).

Because Hines-Allen and Walker already occupy starting roles, the front office was in a tricky spot to acquire an EDGE via free agency. Then they couldn’t land their guy (Ashton Gillotte) during the draft after trading up for Hunter. Gladstone at least addressed the position’s depth in some capacity by signing UDFAs B.J. Green II and Danny Striggow, plus veterans Dawuane Smoot and Emmanuel Ogbah, after the draft. Trent Baalke would never. And I still like the move to get Hunter because the team needs depth and starpower. Gladstone has to hit both singles and homers going forward to put together a contender-caliber roster. The early returns are generally positive.

3.) If you were Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman, how would you go about attacking this Jaguars defense? Where are the weak points? Which matchups would you attempt to exploit?

You basically just want to avoid Hines-Allen and Walker along the edges. They stop pretty much anything that comes their way. That said, the Jaguars have a weak DT room and traded away their best run defending cornerback, Tyson Campbell, so you can find some success running straight up the gut or along the perimeter. Jacksonville’s front seven is above-average at stopping the run, but as I alluded to before, the safety position is a problem.

That means you’re gonna want to pass over the middle of the field. You won’t be scared to throw at cornerbacks Greg Newsome, Montaric Brown (replacing Hunter), and Jarrian Jones (replacing Lewis), but they have flashed impressive ball disruption. You’ll be much more tempted to throw at safeties Andrew Wingard and Antonio Johnson, plus linebacker Foye Oluokun. The first two simply are not starting-caliber players, and the latter has lost a step in coverage this season.

The Jaguars have been tormented by tight ends — Brock Bowers caught 12 of 13 targets for 127 yards and 3 TDs in Week 9 — so I’m expecting a huge game from Oronde Gadsden. It should also be a strong outing for Herbert, who I expect to find answers downfield faster than this Jaguars pass rush can arrive.

4.) If you were Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, how would you plan to stop this Jaguars offense? What’s the best way to make Trevor Lawrence uncomfortable? Which players would you have circled in red?

Coen will be handicapped a bit because top two tight ends Brenton Strange and Hunter Long are out. That means the Jaguars will be calling up Quintin Morris from the practice squad to play with Johnny Mundt on game day. Jacksonville will also have to start Cole Van Lanen or Chuma Edoga at right tackle in place of the injured Anton Harrison, and the left tackle spot is already a weak link. Walker Little leads the NFL in blown blocks with 33, per Sports Info Solutions.

I’d throw blitzes and stunts at the Jaguars, and not just on passing downs. The rushing attack game you see Sunday will be the most diverse you’re witnessed all season. Don’t let Coen find a hole in your run defense or force you to overcommit to stopping the run. The key to defending Jacksonville is containing Etienne, because the offense can’t win consistently on 3rd-and-longs due to its porous offensive tackles, unreliable receivers, and overaggressive quarterback.

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

The Jaguars will come out with a fire in their belly, especially Hines-Allen. He’s a half sack away from breaking the franchise’s all-time record — doing so at home, against a premier quarterback, in a borderline must-win game would be special. But have I mentioned how worried I am about the Jaguars’ overall defensive line and safety positions? Herbert ought to shred. I don’t think the Jaguars offense (down Hunter, Harrison, Strange, Long, and probably Brian Thomas Jr.) will be able to find the endzone as often. Jaguars 23, Chargers 24.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...try-chargers-tes-could-see-big-day-vs-jaguars

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

AFC playoff picture: Los Angeles Chargers drop a spot with loss

The Los Angeles Chargers lost on Sunday and the Buffalo Bills won, which moved the Bills up and the Chargers down in the wild card slots. Along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who beat the Chargers on Sunday, all three teams remain in playoff position for now.

The New England Patriots won on Thursday night, passing the Indianapolis Colts for first place. Then the Denver Broncos moved into first place after their win. Indy is on their bye. The Pittsburgh Steelers also won to stick in the fourth slot as the AFC North leader.

The Broncos put more distance between themselves and the rest of the division with both KC and Denver losing. Denver has a two-game lead. That Week 18 games against the Chargers could be huge.

The Houston Texans evened their record at 5-5 and are a game out of the playoffs right now. They play the Bills on Thursday night. Joining the Texans at 5-5 are the Chiefs and the surging Baltimore Ravens.

AFC playoff standings after Week 11​

The Indianapolis Colts were on a bye.

The Las Vegas Raiders play on Monday night but their outcome won’t impact the standings.

1. Denver Broncos (9-2, 6-2 AFC)
2. New England Patriots (9-2, 5-2 AFC)
3. Indianapolis Colts (8-2, win over DEN)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-4)
5. Buffalo Bills (7-3)
6. Los Angeles Chargers (7-4)
7. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-4)
8. Houston Texans (5-5, 4-2 AFC)
9. Kansas City Chiefs (5-5, 2-4 AFC, win over BAL)
10. Baltimore Ravens (5-5, 3-3 AFC, loss to KC)
11. Miami Dolphins (4-7)
12. Cincinnati Bengals (3-7)
13. Las Vegas Raiders (2-7)
14. New York Jets (2-8)
15. Cleveland Browns (2-8)
16. Tennessee Titans (1-9)

AFC West standings after Week 11​

The Chiefs lost to the Broncos while the Las Vegas Raiders play on Monday night. The Chargers are going to need help if they want to win the division in 2025.

1. Denver Broncos (9-2)
2. Los Angeles Chargers (7-4)
3. Kansas City Chiefs (5-5)
4. Las Vegas Raiders (2-7)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...nsas-city-chiefs-buffalo-bills-denver-broncos

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Monday Open Thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Five takeaways from the Chargers’ loss to the Jaguars (Chargers.com)

Recapping Sunday’s blowout loss to the Jaguars (Chargers.com)

Good, bad, and the ugly from Sunday’s loss in Jacksonville (Chargers Wire)

Did it take just one game to label the Trevor Penning trade a failure? (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Jalen Ramsey was ejected from Steelers-Bengals after throwing a punch (ESPN)

Aaron Rodgers is feared to have a broken bone in his wrist (ESPN)

Week 11 letter grades for every NFL team (CBS Sports)

What we learned from Week 11’s slate of NFL games (NFL.com)

Todd Bowles was frustrated after scoring 32 points and losing to the Bills (Pro Football Talk)

Shedeur Sanders had a rough outing in place of the concussed Dillon Gabriel (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...61538/chargers-daily-links-monday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Best and worst PFF grades from Chargers-Jaguars: Trevor Penning underwhelms in debut

It was a bad, bad day for the Chargers on Sunday.

The Bolts received a 48.3 overall game grade by Pro Football Focus which is currently their worst of the year. They also post a season-low grade in rushing (47.6), total defense (43.8), and coverage (41.4).

Justin Herbert also finished with his lowest total for passing yards in his career with 81 while throwing no touchdowns and one interception. His streak of 15 consecutive games with a passing touchdown was also snapped as the third-longest active streak.

The grades are unsurprisingly not fun to look at, but we’re going to anyway. Prepare yourselves.

Offense​

Best (min. 20 snaps)

OG Jamaree Salyer – 75.1
OT Trey Pipkins – 71.0
WR Keenan Allen – 70.9
RB Kimani Vidal – 65.1
WR Tre’ Harris – 61.8

Salyer was the team’s highest-graded player on offense, albeit with just 21 snaps. His pass block grade of 84.8 was the highest among the offensive linemen by over five grade points while his 67.7 in run blocking was also tops on the team.

Allen topped the Chargers with four catches for 53 yards, including a spectacular 30-yard grab.

Worst

OT Trevor Penning – 46.3
WR Quentin Johnston – 50.6
C Bradley Bozeman – 52.0
OG Mekhi Becton – 52.5
QB Justin Herbert – 53.0

The early returns on the deadline trade for Penning are here and they’re about as bad as you may have expected after watching Sunday’s game. Penning’s 36.1 in pass blocking was the worst among the offensive linemen and his five pressures allowed were tops on the team with the second closest player (Pipkins) allowing two.

Bozeman continues to be a mainstay in the bottom five as he posted a 40.7 in pass blocking, although he did allow zero pressures, per PFF. Becton graded at a 76.6 in pass blocking (second best on the team) but his 43.7 in run blocking was the worst mark for a Chargers lineman.

Herbert finds his way in the bottom five with the worst passing output of his career. He also threw a bad interception when he airmailed one over the head of an open Ladd McConkey on a play in which he actually had ample protection.

Defense​

Best

CB Donte Jackson – 80.2
S Derwin James – 74.3
CB – Benjamin St-Juste – 70.0
EDGE Khalil Mack – 69.6
DT Teair Tart – 68.9

Jackson picked off Trevor Lawrence when the latter tried to force a throw to the far sideline. Jackson has now picked off three passes in a Chargers uniform and has been the most impactful cornerback this season for the Bolts.

Mack had two pressures which was tied for the team lead, but the Chargers overall failed to sack Trevor Lawrence even once.

Worst

LB Denzel Perryman – 27.9
LB Daiyan Henley – 30.3
EDGE Bud Dupree – 33.8
DT Justin Eboigbe – 42.4
DT Da’Shawn Hand – 42.6

Both Perryman and Henley were torched in coverage by the Jaguars. Perryman posted a 28.4 mark in that area while Henley wasn’t much better with a 34.7. Overall five different Chargers had a coverage grade below 40.0.

Dupree had a team-low run defense grade of 35.6 while his pass rush grade of 52.6 was third worst on the team.

Both Hand and Eboigbe struggled in run defense. Eboigbe’s 41.5 was worst among interior defenders while Hand was second worst at 46.4.

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...s-jaguars-trevor-penning-underwhelms-in-debut

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers Daily Links: Tuesday Open Thread

Good morning, Chargers fans!

You know what to do!

And now for today’s links.

Chargers News:​

Takeaways from Jim Harbaugh’s presser on Monday (Chargers.com)

Five things to know about the Chargers ahead of their bye week (Chargers.com)

Overreactions from Week 11’s loss to the Jaguars (Chargers Wire)

Justin Herbert’s rookie debut makes Shedeur Sanders’ debut look even worse in comparison (Bolt Beat)

NFL News:​

Ja’Marr Chase will be suspended one game for spitting on Jalen Ramsey (ESPN)

The Cowboys rolled past the Raiders on Monday Night Football (CBS Sports)

Andy Reid believes the Chiefs need to take care of the small things (NFL.com)

What were the loudest statements made during Week 11’s slate of NFL games? (NFL.com)

Kris Boyd remains hospitalized while his shooter is still at large (Pro Football Talk)

Who are the top five NFL MVP candidates entering Week 12? (Sports Illustrated)

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...1663/chargers-daily-links-tuesday-open-thread

 

[Los Angeles Chargers]

Chargers early 2026 2-round mock draft: Bolts beef up OL, front seven

The Chargers got “out-physicaled” by the Jaguars this past Sunday. Didn’t matter what phase of the game, it simply looked like the Chargers did not want to be out on that field and no one wanted anything to do with stopping Jacksonville from inflicting their will.

That’s why it may be time to start looking at how the Chargers can keep from ever having this happen again under Jim Harbaugh. The team “attempted” to reinforce the trenches, but the signing of guard Mekhi Becton, and the lack of signings made for the defensive interior, are showing just how wrong they were almost every week.

Its time to start looking forward to April’s draft, in some capacity, as we can almost tell which players will and will not likely be in the powder blue next season.

To get us rolling, here’s an optimistic look at what the Chargers could do with their first and second picks, should they end up somewhere in the mid to late sections of each round.

Pick 1: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State​

The Chargers took a low-ceiling swing at Mekhi Becton this offseason in hopes he’d continue his strong play after winning a Super Bowl with the Eagles. Instead of anything like that, he’s been in and out of the lineup all season and hasn’t been great when healthy (at least healthy enough to play).

Los Angeles cannot afford another offseason where they don’t invest heavy resources into the interior protection for Justin Herbert. What they did this past offseason was inching towards malpractice given how things have turned out thus far. Yes, the injuries to Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt could not have been foreseen, but in a world where luck favors the prepared, Joe Hortiz and Jim Harbaugh needed to at least let this worst-case scenario cross their minds.

Enter one of the draft’s top guard prospects in Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane from Penn State. The 6’4, 328-pound blocker is a force up front who plays with rock-steady fundamentals reinforced by massive size and strength. is skillset should suit him well across all offenses, but he’s likely best used in gap schemes where he can clear out space and plow lanes open for his backs.

As a pass protector, he shows a patience that keeps him ready for whatever pass rushers want to throw at him. He knows when to punish jumpers looking for a deflection, as well.

While Penn State has not been a great team this year, Ioane was a major reason why their ground game helped lead them to a spot in the College Football Playoff a season ago.

#PSU LG Vega Ioane was a big reason behind their big day running the football against Michigan State on Saturday. Consistently creating running lanes with his physicality and torque, and showed off the ability to decleat players in space as well pic.twitter.com/UZj47gxPyx

— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) November 18, 2025

Pick 2: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State​

Styles is a converted safety who has quickly built himself into a true three-down linebacker for the Buckeyes. At 6’4 and 243 pounds, there isn’t much ‘tweener left in his game. His big, physical, and has sustained a notable level of athleticism despite the weight gain. In his first season as a second-level defender, Styles totaled 100 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and 6.4 sacks with five pass breakups and a forced fumble.

This season is his second full season at linebacker and he’s doing more of the same for the Buckeyes, despite being a little less productive compared to 2024. In nine games, Styles has 57 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, an interception, two pass breakups, and another forced fumble for the top-ranked team in the country.

Now I’ll be honest here and say there’s a decent chance Styles is long gone before the Chargers select in the second round, but like I said above in the intro, this is an optimistic look. Also, off-ball linebackers aren’t valued that high in the draft and Styles’ teammate Arvell Reese has been overshadowing him for the majority of the season.

Still, Styles’ ability to be a three-down player will also keep his value afloat no matter what scouts want to label him as. I’m very willing to accept this is a dream scenario, but after the loss the Chargers just had, it’s not a bad thing to want to hope, right?

#OhioState LB Sonny Styles physically taking on the pulling OT to close the run lane and allow his teammates to pursue and make a tackle.

Physical. pic.twitter.com/mbRseI01pl

— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 10, 2025

Source: https://www.boltsfromtheblue.com/lo...round-mock-draft-bolts-beef-up-ol-front-seven