Chargers: Five reasons to be optimistic about injuries

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CARSON, CALIFORNIA – SEPTEMBER 08: Devin Funchess #17 of the Indianapolis Colts can’t come down with the catch while pursued by Brandon Facyson #28 of the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth quarter at Dignity Health Sports Park on September 08, 2019 in Carson, California. The Chargers defeated the Colts 30-24 in overtime. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)

Chargers will have better depth in the long run

Would the Chargers be thrilled to have Brandon Facyson, Roderic Teamer, Lance Kendricks, and Trent Scott out there starting in the Divisional Round of the playoffs? Probably not. But if they do, at least they’ll have some legitimate experience in NFL games.

Facyson, in particular, should be commended for his improvement over his three starts at corner. Opening the season with a coverage grade of 34.5, he went on to post grades of 56.2 and 66.8 in his next two games.

Chargers injuries aren’t all season-ending

The Chargers’ season isn’t over (yet), but they do need to survive and win better than they have. Because for as long as that injury list is, the list of players returning within the next month is just as long. The return of Okung, James, and Phillips are is significant for different reasons. With Okung, the Chargers get a very outspoken veteran presence at one of the NFL’s most important positions. James’ return gives the team a four-quarter emotional boost, as well as one of the best players in the NFL. Phillips not only gives the defense a multi-talented player, but also a bit of inspiration, as no player on the team has a better nothing-to-something NFL story than No. 31.