NFL Player News

Slot CB Ja’Sir Taylor (fibula) was also absent on Wednesday. The Chargers’ middling secondary cannot afford to lose two starters in one week, though the Panthers’ lackluster passing game is likely a manageable opponent even if the defense is short staffed.

The team is expected to elevate LB Nate Landman (quad) to the active roster after activating him from injured reserve via the 21-day practice window on Wednesday. King played seven snaps this season, allowing one 13-yard completion on one target.

CB Asante Samuel Jr. (shoulder) was also ruled out. While an elite secondary is not required to limit Bo Nix, the Chargers’ defensive losses are notable here. Nix could have an easier-than-expected time returning QB2 value.

Bosa was limited on Friday after sitting out practice on both Thursday and Friday. The talented edge player seems likely to miss another week, nursing his persistent hip issue.

Edwards’ absence ignites a battle between enticing rookie Kimani Vidal and the hulking Hassan Haskins for the No. 2 role. Fantasy managers should consider stashing either player, though Vidal’s three-down profile offers more upside.

Estime practiced in full this week and should come off injured reserve over the weekend. Tyler Badie broke off a few big runs in Estime’s absence but suffered a back injury and is now on injured reserve as well, leaving the RB3 gig open once again. Estime should fill that role upon returning. He is worth a speculative add in deep leagues but is mostly off the redraft radar for now.

Alt closed the week with two Full Participant practice designations, so he is good to go. RT Rashawn Slater (pectoral) was limited all week and appears to be truly questionable.

Herbert faces the Broncos’ blitz-heavy defense in Week 6. His low passing volume coupled with the difficult matchup keep him firmly in the QB2 ranks. The Chargers should also get at least one starting tackle back in the lineup this week.

Crosby was held out of the first two practices of the week after playing through the ankle issue last Sunday. Despite being far from fully healthy, Crosby brought down Bo Nix twice in Week 5. The star EDGE will look to find paydirt versus a sack-prone Justin Fields this week.

White was held out of the first two practices of the week before returning for a limited session on Friday. He missed Week 5 with the groin issue. Alexander Mattison drew the start in his absence and ran 15 times for 38 yards while adding two receptions for 23 yards. White would reclaim his two-down role if active, but this looks like a backfield to avoid given the spiraling state of the Las Vegas offense.

Bourne could establish himself as a high-floor flex option at some point but his second game post-ACL coupled with Drake Maye’s first start makes for a risky start. Bourne is best left in free agency or at the end of long benches for now.