Chargers opponent injuries: Detroit Lions
Taylor Decker, Tackle – Questionable (Back)
Expect Joey Bosa and Melvin Ingram to have a good game in week two. Last week, Taylor Decker gave up an NFL-high seven pressures in week one, and young backup Tyrell Crosby has been taking most of the practice reps at left tackle this week. In either situation, Bosa and Ingram have a chance to feast this week.
Austin Bryant, Defensive End – Out, IR (Arm)
In the preseason, the Lions lost their fourth-round pick, Austin Bryant. Without Bryant, the Lions are low on depth at defensive end, which could be a great help for the Chargers tackles.
Da’Shawn Hand, Defensive End – Questionable (Elbow)
Hand is important depth for the Lions at defensive end, so any losses there could potentially help the Chargers tackles hold up better against the pass rush. However, Hand is not the starter, so this injury is less significant than others.
Jarrad Davis, Linebacker – Questionable (Ankle)
Jarrad Davis is a key piece to the Lions defense. Last week, rookie Jahlani Tavai was pushed into action in his place.
If Davis comes back in this game, his mobility will be limited. If he does not, Tavai will play. In either situation, the Chargers will have the opportunity to exploit the middle of the field against the Lions defense through intermediate throws and runs up the middle.
Injury Impact Analysis
Detroit Lions Injury Impact: 2.0
The Lions have few injuries, and most of the injuries that they do have are to backups. Jarrad Davis’ injury is important, but he is trending towards playing against the Chargers.
Los Angeles Chargers Injury Impact: 8.5
Okung, Williams, Henry, Perryman, Davis, James, Badgley, and more are all ailing. Things could be worse, but the Chargers have a plethora of important injuries this week. Fortunately, the toughest part of the schedule is yet to come. Still, the Chargers will need good a good game plan from coaches and solid play from their backups to beat the Lions and secure their second victory of the season.