Head coach Brandon Staley announced on Friday that the Los Angeles Chargers intend to activate edge rusher Joey Bosa from injured reserve prior to their matchup with the Los Angeles Rams in Week 17.
“He’s looked good,” Staley said about the two practices Bosa has participated in since being designated to return. “This is going to be part of his return to play is getting out there and playing football. Excited to see him compete.”
Staley stated that safety Derwin James Jr. will be out while he works through the concussion protocol.
With two games remaining in the regular season, the Bolts are 9-6 and have qualified for the playoffs. The Rams are 5-10 and have been disposed of from postseason conflict.
This week, Bosa practiced for the first time since he had groin surgery following a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 3. He said he felt the best he had in “years” and explained that the problem with his groin had been going on for a while but he didn’t address it until he tore it completely.
However, it is anticipated that Bosa will play on a limited snap count on Sunday.
“He’s got to get his football conditioning,” Staley said. “It’s not like he’s going to go out there and play like he’s been playing for four, three months, but he’s going to go out there and play. That was our plan, that if he’s going to play, he’s going to play.”
Khalil Mack, an edge rusher, expressed excitement regarding Bosa’s return. When Bosa remained in the lineup for the first three games of the season, Mack recorded four of his eight sacks.
“It’s a great feeling, not only having him over there as a player, knowing the dynamic, the kind of player he is but understanding the energy and the character that he brings in situations and those scenarios when it’s a third down and we need a big stop,” Mack said. “All those situational moments.”
Bosa had seven tackles, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble in three games.
