Chargers Still Face A Justin Herbert Question Before Chiefs Showdown

As the Chargers gear up for a crucial game against the Chiefs, Coach Jim Harbaugh sheds light on the uncertain return of key wide receivers Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston.

Jim Harbaugh still isn’t tipping his hand on exactly how much Ladd McConkey and Quentin Johnston will be used Sunday against the Chiefs.

Asked Friday about whether the Chargers expect a snap count for either receiver in Week 6, Harbaugh kept it simple: “I don't know,” he said.

Pressed further on whether McConkey and Johnston will be full participants, Harbaugh answered, “We'll see how it goes,”

That leaves the Chargers’ top two wideouts in a wait-and-see spot even after both missed last week’s game against the Broncos.

McConkey was active in that contest but never got on the field. He had been labeled week-to-week entering Week 5 because of a foot injury, though the Chargers still made him available for the game. For Week 6, though, he no longer carries an injury designation for Sunday.

Johnston is also set to return after sitting out Week 5 with a chest injury. He had been ruled out for his first missed game of the season, but that status has changed, and he is good to go this week.

McConkey’s return should give Justin Herbert and the offense a lift. The Chargers’ attack has been rough all season, sitting 30th in points per game, 25th in yards per game, 24th in yards per play and 36th in third-down conversion.

The bigger question now is how quickly Harbaugh puts both receivers back into the mix after a week away, especially with McConkey and Johnston both cleared to play. McConkey’s comeback matters, and Johnston’s availability gives the Chargers another option as they try to get the offense moving.

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