Each game the Chargers play until the end of the season is a big game because they sit at 6-5. They will face the Las Vegas Raiders this weekend, which has won two games in a row.

The Chargers do have some injuries heading into practice this week.

Center Corey Linsley sustained a concussion during Sunday’s game against the Arizona Cardinals. On Wednesday, Chargers coach Brandon Staley said that the center was still in concussion protocol.

If Linsley can’t play, which would be a big blow for the offense due to him being the leader of the offensive line, then Will Clapp will get the start.

“Exemplary from a backup center,” Staley said. “That’s why we went and got him. The familiarity with [Offensive Coordinator] Joe [Lombardi] and [Offensive Line Coach] Brendan [Nugent] was really significant. Then, much like a backup quarterback is, I think that relationship with the starting center is very important, the relationship with the quarterbacks. He has a great way about him.

“He’s come in and played quality football for us and given us an opportunity to win a bunch of games. We’re glad that we have him. One of those underrated offseason signings for our football team.” 

Right tackle Trey Pipkins reaggravated the knee injury he has had for some time. He may return to practice this week.

“We’re shooting for it, but we’re going to be careful with it,” Staley said. 

Pipkins was a project since he was drafted in 2019 out of Sioux Falls, but he has shown his abilities this season. He has fought hard to stay on the field despite numerous injuries and has held his own against some of the better pass rushers.

Especially having to face Maxx Crosby this weekend, the offensive line will need Pipkins.

The offense could potentially be without receiver Mike Williams. He is still dealing with the reaggravated ankle he suffered against the Kansas City Chiefs. He has missed four games.

Staley said Williams is day-to-day, and they will try to get him on the practice field this week. It would be huge for the offense if he can’t play on Sunday, but he may be a week away.

Lastly, edge rusher Joey Bosa hasn’t been on the field since he walked off with a torn groin in week three against Jacksonville. He had surgery to repair it, and Staley said he would be out for 8-10 weeks. It has been eight weeks since the surgery.

Staley mentioned in the past that he would probably need a week or two to get going, so that would put him at ten weeks and playing against the Tennessee Titans. Obviously, they aren’t trying to rush the pass rusher back because they want him to return at 100 percent.

“Keep making progress,” Staley said. “When that moment comes, we’ll be ready for him.”

Nuts N’ Bolts

• Chargers injury report. DNP: CB Bryce Callahan (groin), S Derwin James (hip), C Corey Linsley (concussion), OLB Khalil Mack (rest), RT Trey Pipkins (knee), WR Mike Williams (ankle). Limited: S Nasir Adderely (thumb). Full: CB Michael Davis (knee), LB Kenneth Murray (wrist), LT Jamaree Salyer (knee).