Los Angeles Chargers Banking on Return of Key Players for 2023 NFL Season
J.C. Jackson, Joey Bosa, and Rashawn Slater Poised to Make Impactful Comebacks
Injuries proved to be a challenging hurdle for the Los Angeles Chargers in the previous season, impacting their performance even as they secured a playoff spot. The toll of these injuries was evident, particularly due to the absence of star defenders J.C. Jackson and Joey Bosa, along with standout offensive lineman Rashawn Slater. The combined total of 38 missed games among these players created a noticeable gap in the team’s lineup. ESPN NFL writer Mike Clay acknowledges their significance and has identified them as the X-Factors for the Chargers.
Highlighting their crucial roles, Clay positioned the Chargers eighth among ten NFL teams, emphasizing the significance of their contributions to the team’s prosperity. When at his prime, Joey Bosa stands out as one of the league’s top defensive ends, with his exceptional gameplay causing a ripple effect on the entire defense. Much like Bosa, J.C. Jackson’s presence creates an impact, even though he encountered challenges before his injury. There’s an optimistic outlook that he will bounce back and demonstrate that his struggles in early 2022 were an anomaly. The genuine version of J.C. Jackson, showcased in 2021, is poised for a powerful resurgence.
Rashawn Slater swiftly established himself as one of the premier left tackles in the league, despite being limited to merely three games in 2022 due to injury. Fueled by a desire for redemption, Slater is determined to build upon his prior achievements during the 2023 season.
New year, same question: Will a loaded Chargers team finally stay healthy? Three of the league’s best players at their respective positions — linebacker Bosa (groin), cornerback Jackson (knee, ankle) and left tackle Slater (biceps) — all appeared in fewer than seven regular-season games in 2022. And that’s not to mention the substantial missed action for safety Derwin James Jr., defensive tackle Austin Johnson and receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. Los Angeles remains stacked on paper, but the health bug is the elephant in the room.
The Chargers are well aware of the critical role that the availability and performance of these three players will play in propelling their game to the next echelon. Should they manage to stay healthy and continue delivering impactful performances, there’s no doubt that they will lead the team towards even greater achievements in the coming season.
