The Chargers’ revamped receiving corps will start the season without DJ Chark, who has been placed on injured reserve. The veteran wide receiver, who joined the team on a one-year deal this spring, is sidelined due to a hip injury that kept him from practicing during the week. As a result, he will miss at least the first four games of the season.
Chark, 27, came to the Chargers after stints with the Lions and Panthers following his rookie contract with the Jaguars. His absence leaves a gap in the Chargers’ receiving group, which has seen significant changes. Long-time staples Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are no longer with the team. Allen was traded to the Bears, while Williams was released after missing much of last season due to an ACL injury.
In their absence, the Chargers have retained Josh Palmer, who is poised for a key role as he approaches free agency. The team also looks to second-year wideout Quentin Johnston to step up after a lackluster rookie season. New general manager Joe Hortiz and head coach Jim Harbaugh added three new receivers through the draft, including second-round pick Ladd McConkey. Chark was expected to be a significant part of the rotation among these new additions, but his debut with the Chargers will be postponed.
A Pro Bowler in 2019, Chark’s performance has varied since then, with a decline in production and multiple injuries limiting his playtime in subsequent seasons. Despite missing several games, he has maintained a solid career average of 14.5 yards per catch and has recorded 1,027 yards and eight touchdowns over the past few years. Once he recovers, Chark is expected to provide a vertical threat to the Chargers’ passing game. For now, however, the team will have to manage without him.