Rookie Ladd McConkey has emerged as the most reliable pass-catching target on the LA Chargers this season. It did not take long for McConkey to build a rapport with Justin Herbert and as a result, the former Georgia Bulldog leads all rookie wideouts in receiving yards this season.
Unfortunately, McConkey injured his knee after a 100-yard first half against the Atlanta Falcons last week. McConkey did not return to the game, putting his status against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 14 in jeopardy.
After being a limited participant in Wednesday's practice with a knee and shoulder injury, McConkey provided some faith for Chargers fans when speaking to reporters on Thursday. While nothing is concrete, McConkey is doing everything he can to suit up for the Bolts on Sunday Night Football.
Ladd McConkey on whether he expects to play Sunday in KC: "Shoot, if I can play, I'm gonna play. At the end of the day, I'm gonna do whatever I need to do to get out there."
— Daniel Popper (@danielrpopper) December 5, 2024
Chargers' Ladd McConkey provides hope for playing vs. Chiefs
McConkey's status very well could be the difference in the entire game for the Chargers. Beating the Chiefs without the team's best pass-catching target, especially considering the rest of the room has been disappointing this season, feels like a pipe dream.
Beating the Chiefs is more reasonable if McConkey is able to play. As stout as the Chiefs have been defensively this season, the offense has left more to be desired. With a stout defense on the Los Angeles sideline, all the Chargers need is for Herbert and McConkey to connect as a high rate to outduel the Chiefs on offense.
Of course, that is easier said than done and even if McConkey plays he will likely be doing so somewhat compromised. The Chiefs also recognize McConkey's impact on the offense and will do everything they can to take him out of the game.
Even with McConkey out there, the Chargers are going to need contributions from other weapons on offense to get the job done. Having McConkey out there at least gives those weapons more favorable matchups.
Regardless of whether or not McConkey plays, Sunday's game between the Chargers and Chiefs is going to be a dog fight. Two strong defenses will be doing everything they can to limit two superstar quarterbacks, both of which are preparing for a run in the 2024 NFL Playoffs.
It is going to be an entertaining game and the hope is that McConkey will be able to be a part of it. After his comments on Thursday, that reality seems more likely than it did a few days ago.