An already-thin area of the Chargers' roster will be even worse in Week 7

Like any NFL team, the LA Chargers have both strengths and weaknesses that are very obvious thus far in the 2024 season. What makes the Chargers' strengths and weaknesses interesting this season is the fact they are flipped from what has been the case in previous years.

The Chargers tout one of the strongest defenses in the league but on the flip side, have one of the worst passing offenses. Los Angeles' lack of dynamic pass-catching weapons, coupled with an offensive line that hasn't lived up to expectations, has hindered star quarterback Justin Herbert thus far in 2024.

One area that could use some work as 2024 rolls around is the tight end position. Tight end was an area of weakness for the Bolts in 2023 and that has not changed much despite the new faces on the team in 2024. The Bolts at least have a better blocking tight end in Will Dissly leading the way, but that is about all the team has.

Unfortunately, this room may end up looking even worse for the Chargers in Week 7 against the Arizona Cardinals. Dissly and backup tight end Hayden Hurst were both inactive during Wednesday's practice, officially opening the door for both tight ends to miss the team's upcoming game.

Chargers' tight end room could be a complete mess in Week 7

Dissly's status for Week 7 is still up in the air but fans should not expect to see Hurst in the lineup at all for the Chargers. While Hurst avoided a serious groin injury, it does look like he will be out of action for several weeks.

If Dissly joins Hurst and is unable to suit up in Week 7 then the Chargers will be turning to Eric Tomlinson and Stone Smartt. Tomlinson has one passing target and has played 61 offensive snaps this season. Smartt also has one passing target in the 20 offensive snaps he has played.

Smartt is a better pass-catching option than Tomlinson but he still does not live up to the top two tight ends on the depth chart, even with how low that bar is. It is safe to say that the tight end position won't be a big part of the game plan on Monday against the Cardinals.

The Chargers could also elevate either Tucker Fisk or McCallan Castles, both of whom are on the practice squad. Fisk signed with the Chargers during the preseason and has NFL experience.

Castles went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft and was originally signed by the Philadelphia Eagles. He was released and signed by the Chargers this week.