The Los Angeles Chargers face the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday with Ladd McConkey’s availability still hanging in the balance. McConkey is listed as questionable after suffering a rib injury in Los Angeles’ Week 1 loss to the Arizona Cardinals. However, the wide receiver has made encouraging progress toward playing. According to reports, McConkey has made rapid progress this week and has every intention of playing against the Raiders. That said, the final decision was expected after pregame evaluation.

Ladd McConkey’s injury status vs. Raiders

Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey (15) warms up prior to a game against the Arizona Cardinals at SoFi Stadium.
Image Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images

McConkey missed practice Wednesday and Thursday before returning as a limited participant Friday. That's a significant development after he exited their season opener in the third quarter. He had already established himself as Justin Herbert’s leading target against Arizona, catching five passes for 82 yards and a touchdown before the injury.

Heading into Week 2, the Chargers are desperate to rebound from their 26–14 defeat to Arizona and avoid an early 0–2 hole. Jim Harbaugh’s defense held up against the run. However, the offense struggled to sustain rhythm. They converted only two third downs while Herbert faced consistent pressure. McConkey’s potential return would give new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel a crucial piece of his passing game. This would also help create opportunities for Quentin Johnston and the rest of the receiving corps.

Chargers injury report

  • Ladd McConkey, WR – Rib – Questionable
  • Deane Leonard, CB – Abdomen – Questionable
  • Elijah Molden, DB – Hamstring – Out
  • Trey Pipkins III, – OL – Knee – Out

Raiders injury report

  • Darien Porter, CB – Foot – Out
  • Brock Bowers, TE – Knee – Doubtful
  • Aidan O'Connell, QB – Non-Injury/Personal – Questionable
  • Ashton Jeanty, RB – Ankle – Cleared (No Status)