Los Angeles Chargers injury report and impact vs. Miami Dolphins
By Tyler Gallagher
Chargers injuries, continued
Hunter Henry, Tight End – Out (Knee)
Virgil Green, Tight End – Out (Groin)
To make things just a bit more difficult for the Chargers, they will also be missing their top two threats at tight end. Neither Green nor Henry have participated in a single practice this week.
Thus, the Chargers will rely on Sean Culkin and the recently-signed Lance Kendricks. Neither are known to be receiving tight ends, so while they will likely be given a chance at production, expect Ken Whisenhunt to plan for his tight ends to primarily be utilized as run and pass blockers.
Drue Tranquill, Linebacker – Questionable (Ankle)
Through he lit up the preseason, Tranquill has not yet been heavily utilized on defense. His presence will be missed on special teams though, where he is developing into an impact player.
Casey Hayward, Cornerback – Questionable (Back)
While missing Hayward would be a huge blow most weeks, the Dolphins do not possess a true No.1 receiver. Furthermore, Michael Davis is healthy again, so he may be tasked with taking many of Hayward’s snaps.
Without a true number one corner, the Chargers may be tempted to play more zone in this game. While that could help cover up Hayward’s injury issue, Rayshawn Jenkins and Roderic Teamer were a step too slow to completely cover their zones in the game against the Houston Texans. The huge lack in normal starters in the secondary could be an issue in this game.
Michael Badgley, Kicker – Out (Groin)
Finally, it appears that the Chargers did what was right to help Badgley recover this week, as he did not participate in any practices rather than being a limited participant each day just for the groin issue to flare up again.
Ty Long will kick this week. While he has performed remarkably well to this point, one has to wonder how long he might be able to continue performing double duty at an NFL level.