The LA Chargers had been eagerly awaiting the return of wide receiver DJ Chark, who had spent nearly two months on injured reserve due to hip and groin injuries. This Sunday marked his first game back, as he was finally added to the active roster. However, Chark’s return didn’t quite live up to the expectations some may have had. He was only on the field for a single snap, which was a run-blocking play, and had the fewest offensive snaps of any player on the roster.
When asked by The Athletic’s Daniel Popper if Chark’s limited playing time was due to him still recovering from his injuries, head coach Jim Harbaugh suggested that the team’s preference for other wide receivers played a bigger role in the decision. Harbaugh said it was more of an “affirmation” of how well the entire receiver group has been performing.
Harbaugh highlighted several players who have impressed him, starting with rookie Ladd McConkey, who had his best game yet in terms of technique and blocking. He also mentioned that Josh Palmer and Quentin Johnston are continuing to improve, describing them as “ascending” players. In addition, Harbaugh praised former practice squad receiver Jalen Reagor, noting that he had earned his spot on the field with solid contributions on special teams and offense.
Despite Chark’s return, none of these receivers have been overtaken in terms of usage or depth chart standing. Harbaugh expressed his satisfaction with how well McConkey, Palmer, Johnston, and Reagor have been playing, adding that there simply wasn’t an opportunity to take any of them out of the rotation.
Given the unpredictable nature of the NFL, Chark could still see more playing time in the future. The Chargers also have wide receivers Simi Fehoko and Brenden Rice on injured reserve, which may further open opportunities. As the Chargers prepare to face the high-powered Cincinnati offense this Sunday night, the receiver rotation could continue to evolve.
