Chargers' Edwards and Samuel Jr. on Injured Reserve

The Los Angeles Chargers have placed running back Gus Edwards and cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. on injured reserve, sidelining them for at least four games due to an ankle injury and a shoulder injury, respectively. Edwards' absence impacts the Chargers' backfield, where he shared responsibilities with J.K. Dobbins, while Samuel Jr.'s role in the defense, which allows the fewest points per game in the league, is significant. Samuel Jr. had been managing a shoulder injury since the preseason but continued to play until now. The Chargers will also face the Denver Broncos without starting nickel cornerback Ja'Sir Taylor due to a fibula injury. Rookies Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still are expected to see increased playing time, and Hassan Haskins and Kimani Vidal may take on more snaps in the backfield. Additionally, the Chargers have activated linebacker Nick Niemann and signed safety Tony Jefferson to help cover the gaps left by these injuries.