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The Los Angeles Chargers will be without starting wide receiver Mike Williams after he sprained his shoulder in Sunday’s practice, per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. His ‘week-to-week’ designation doesn’t give much confidence that he will be 100 percent ready for Week 1, but only time will tell.
#Chargers WR Mike Williams, who left practice with his arm hanging, was diagnosed with a shoulder sprain and is considered week-to-week, source said. His collarbone is intact. At this point, his return to play timeline — and status for the opener -- is not yet determined.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 24, 2020
Williams has been the Chargers’ deep threat the last few years and shown great ability when given a chance. He finished last season with just 49 receptions, but 1,001 yards, giving him a lofty 20.4 yards per catch. But last season was also a big difference in touchdowns from his previous year, as he finished with 10 in 2018 and two in 2019.
The ability is there and this injury shouldn’t keep him out for long, as it appears he has a chance to be ready for Week 1. The effectiveness of the Chargers offense is still undetermined under Tyrod Taylor, but he couldn’t be much worse than Philip Rivers on deep balls last season.
Williams’ absence should help coaches get more looks at rookie Joe Reed, who has been praised early on in camp. But, this injury does highlight the lack of true depth the Chargers have at receiver. Expect Austin Ekeler and Hunter Henry to get extra work if Williams misses any time in the regular season.