Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey suffered an apparent injury in the club’s Week 13 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Here’s the latest from Sunday’s game.
What Happened to Ladd McConkey?
The Chargers announced that McConkey was questionable to return with a knee injury near the end of the fourth quarter.
McConkey’s last target and reception came with 5:39 remaining in the third quarter, when he hauled in a 12-yard pass from Justin Herbert. You can watch the play below.
Ladd McConkey –
Limping after this catch.
He lands/gets hit like this every single game, limps off, then returns. So I won’t be surprised if he’s able to walk it off.Each time it’s been his right hip. pic.twitter.com/G5EvKLXWGk
— Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT (@jmthrivept) December 1, 2024
McConkey has been banged up during his rookie season but has yet to miss a game.
The Georgia product has quickly become Herbert’s favorite receiver and put up another productive day in Los Angeles’ 17-13 win over Atlanta. McConkey posted nine catches on 12 targets for 117 yards before departing. No other Chargers pass catcher earned more than four targets or two receptions.
Entering Week 13, McConkey led all Los Angeles receivers in targets (69), catches (49), and receiving yards (698) and was second in receiving touchdowns (four).
Did McConkey Return in Week 13?
McConkey never re-entered Sunday’s game after departing in the third quarter.
By the time the Chargers announced an update on the rookie wideout’s status, Week 13 was nearly complete.
Ladd McConkey was on the receiving end of 117 of Justin Herbert's 147 passing yards against the Falcons, and he was targeted on 48% of his routes
McConkey has the 5th most receiving yards on crossing routes in the league, per NFL Pro pic.twitter.com/QVInuMJCNE
— Shawn Syed (@SyedSchemes) December 1, 2024
After Sunday’s game, McConkey said he would determine the extent of his knee injury on Monday, according to ESPN’s Kris Rhim. We’ll need to monitor McConkey’s practice participation ahead of Week 14.
Los Angeles is now 8-4 and on target for an AFC playoff berth. Over the next three weeks, they’ll face the Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Denver Broncos.
Fantasy Implications of McConkey’s Injury
The opening up of the Chargers’ offense has allowed McConkey’s star to shine bright, making any setback a hindrance for fantasy managers.
Quentin Johnston has had his moments, but a lack of consistency will prevent him from pushing the top 30 in our weekly rankings. A few extra looks for TE Will Dissly will solidify his status as a fantasy football starter in most formats.
— PFN Analyst Kyle Soppe
