Ladd McConkey Questionable to Return With Back Injury

McConkey left the Chargers’ game against Houston with a back injury, adding to the team’s injury concerns as it tried to avoid an 0-8 start ahead of the NFL trade deadline. He was listed as questionable to return during the first quarter, with Los Angeles trailing 7-3.

McConkey had back spasms during pregame warmups. He had appeared in six games entering the matchup, catching 17 passes for 286 yards and one touchdown. Despite those modest totals, he led the Chargers in receiving production.

Should McConkey be sidelined, Quentin Johnston and Tre Harris are expected to handle the leading roles among the team’s receivers. Rookie Brenen Thompson, whom coach Mike McDaniel had targeted, is also unavailable.

McConkey has dealt with injuries throughout the season and has struggled in McDaniel’s offense. His status for the remainder of the Texans game was listed as uncertain.