From Los Angeles Chargers On SI · · 2m
Chargers' Week 5 Storylines
Chargers face offensive line crisis as they battle Broncos in Week 5.
In brief
Chargers face offensive line crisis as they battle Broncos in Week 5. Chargers' offensive line injuries and lack of depth threaten their 2026 season survival against the Broncos. Originally reported by Los Angeles Chargers On SI.
Chargers' 2026 season at risk
The Los Angeles Chargers are not dead yet, but their 2026 season is barely breathing.
Offensive struggles in 2026
Expectations entering the season were sky high and their struggles on the offensive side of the ball have been shocking to everyone around the NFL.
Offensive line injuries
The Los Angeles Chargers lost three out five starting offensive linemen in week four against the Seahawks and left guard Trevor Penning was already the fifth option at left guard looking back to training camp.
Offensive line depth issues
The Chargers hope to activate Branson Taylor from injured reserve for this game but even if he returns to the lineup, they will still be sending out at least two rookies and potentially up to…
Mike McDaniel's challenge
The lack of experience and time on task will absolutely affect the play calling and available play calls for offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel.
Broncos run defense weakness
The Broncos run defense is giving up 4.1 yards per carry and are second to last in the NFL in defensive epa against the run.
Run game necessity
If the Chargers can establish the run, it will help the inexperienced offensive line face a very good front seven from the Broncos but it should also open up the play action passing attack and…
Wide receiver uncertainty
Johnston and Brenen Thompson are already ruled out for this week and McConkey may not play either which leaves Harris, Marquez Valdez-Scantling and Derius Davis as the only healthy receivers.
Penalty concerns
The Chargers are leading the NFL in false start penalties and have consistently shot themselves in the foot with negative plays from either penalties or just from negative results.
Game strategy adjustments
The Chargers will be facing the Broncos missing a significant chunk of their starting lineup and even if some of them play through injuries, they will have had limited to no practice all week.
Week 5 matchup
The Chargers enter Sunday down multiple receivers on top of the offensive line injuries, establishing the run is an absolute must for Mike McDaniel.
What it means
Chargers' offensive line injuries and lack of depth threaten their 2026 season survival against the Broncos.
