Chargers Place Njoku and Perryman on 21-Day Practice Window

The Los Angeles Chargers activated tight end David Njoku and linebacker Denzel Perryman from injured reserve on Wednesday, initiating a 21-day practice window that allows the players to return to the active roster.

Njoku sustained a fibula injury during the team's second week of action. He was carted from the field in the second quarter of a 26-14 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders at SoFi Stadium. Prior to the injury, he recorded six receptions in his first two games. His placement on injured reserve required him to miss a minimum of four contests.

Perryman dealt with a pectoral issue that surfaced during training camp. He was placed on injured reserve on September 1, nearly two weeks before the season opener. He spent the following weeks on the sidelines observing practice before receiving clearance to resume full participation on Wednesday.

The return of these two veterans alters the depth chart in specific ways. Njoku would join Oronde Gadsden and Charlie Kolar in a tight end rotation, providing another receiving option for quarterback Justin Herbert. Perryman would add depth to the linebacker corps, which currently features Daiyan Henley and Del' Shawn Phillips.

The timing of Perryman's activation coincides with a shoulder injury suffered by Henley. Henley left the field during the opening minutes of Sunday's 24-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams but returned to play, recording five tackles. Coach Jim Harbaugh stated that the team feels it is best for Henley to skip full practice outside of the walk-through.

The Chargers maintain a 0-7 record, a performance that has generated discussion regarding the mental pressure on the roster. Harbaugh described the team's current state as determined, strong, and highly motivated. He emphasized a mindset of pressing forward despite the lack of wins.

When asked about the potential for the team to be pressing too hard, Harbaugh cited the principle that fortune favors those who persist. He noted that things rarely come easily in the league and that the preparation week involves driving harder. He affirmed that the players are focused on making the current day a productive one.

Trade rumors continue to center on outside linebacker Khalil Mack, a 13-year veteran with nine Pro Bowl selections. The trade deadline is set for next Tuesday at 1 p.m. PT. Mack has previously dismissed concerns about the rumors, stating a preference for being where his feet are.

Harbaugh did not rule out a trade before the deadline. He identified Joe Hortiz and Chad Alexander as the organization's primary figures looking to improve the team. While Harbaugh expressed a desire to keep Mack, he acknowledged the front office's ongoing evaluation. General Manager Joe Hortiz has not addressed the deadline for the record and is not expected to be a seller.