When Los Angeles Chargers star safety Derwin James exited last Thursday’s 37-10 win versus the Minnesota Vikings with an ankle injury, the only natural reaction was “please no more” or “make it stop!” Fortunately, by the grace of the football gods and thanks to the extended break, the 2018-19 First-Team All-Pro is expected to play in this Sunday’s road game versus the Tennessee Titans, according to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports.
James has recorded one and a half sacks, 28 solo tackles, five tackles for loss, one interception, nine total pressures, and three pass breakups in eight games this season. Beyond his impressive stats, he provides LA with a strong leadership presence, making him one of the most valuable members of the team.
The Chargers, even when banged-up, should have enough firepower to dispatch the last-place Titans (1-7). However, having a versatile four-time Pro Bowler in the secondary is always a significant advantage.
Following this fortunate break, the Jim Harbaugh-coached team is getting much healthier. Khalil Mack and Joe Alt have both returned after suffering early-season injuries, and rookie running back Omarion Hampton is gradually progressing in his recovery from an ankle injury.
The Chargers had a different air about them in September, and the hope is that they can regain that momentum as their key players return. The upcoming meeting at Nissan Stadium may not reveal much about the Bolts—unless they lose, of course—but it offers an excellent opportunity to build on their recent thrashing of the Vikings.
Looking ahead, when LA faces upper-tier competition again—battling the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs in December—the team will ideally look the part of a legitimate contender once more.
Derwin James and the Chargers (5-3) take the field at 1 p.m. ET this Sunday afternoon.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/los-angeles-chargers/chargers-news-massive-derwin-james-injury-update