The LA Chargers released their final injury report for the New England game following the team’s final practice on Thursday.
Running back Gus Edwards (ankle), linebacker Denzel Perryman (groin), and right guard Trey Pipkins (hip) were all ruled out of Saturday’s game. Meanwhile, running back J.K. Dobbins (knee), tight end Will Dissly (shoulder), tight end Hayden Hurst (illness), and safety Elijah Molden (knee) are listed as questionable.
At today’s media availability, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed that Edwards reaggravated the ankle injury he suffered in the Broncos game during practice this week. Edwards was a limited participant in Tuesday’s practice before being downgraded to a DNP today.
As for Dobbins, his outlook seems much more positive. Although he is officially listed questionable, Dobbins was upgraded from limited practice earlier in the week to full participation on Thursday. On Tuesday, OC Greg Roman said that the Chargers’ top running back looked fresh in practice after having his window opened:
Chargers OC Greg Roman on how RB J.K. Dobbins looked in practice yesterday: “I thought he looked really good. Looked really fresh. Thought he had some real spring in his step.”
— Alex Insdorf (@alexinsdorf99) December 24, 2024
“I thought it was a good day for him, hopefully we can have one today.” pic.twitter.com/Lvtf5Mv7Ew
Chargers desperately need J.K. Dobbins vs. Patriots with Gus Edwards out
Los Angeles’ run game has struggled to find form without Dobbins. The team ranks 30th in rushing EPA/play from Weeks 13-16 in Dobbins’ absence.
Having him back in the lineup would likely stabilize their rushing production. With Dobbins active from Weeks 1-12, the Chargers ranked 15th in the league in rush EPA/play.
It’s an unfortunate break for Edwards to once again be dealing with an ankle injury. After what was probably his best game of the season punctuated by a 43-yard run to nearly seal the Denver win, he’s once again snakebitten. Edwards missed four games earlier this season after suffering an ankle injury in the first matchup vs. Kansas City.
Assuming Dobbins can go, the Chargers’ backfield would consist of him, Kimani Vidal, and Hassan Haskins. The Chargers also have the option to elevate RB Jaret Patterson from the practice squad.
In what could be a sluggish cold weather game in New England, the Chargers will look to clinch a playoff spot. A more consistent ground game with Dobbins from down to down certainly wouldn’t hurt their case.