The San Diego Chargers will play the rest of the season without two key starters.
Seven-time Pro Bowl pass rusher Dwight Freeneywill be placed on injured reserve after undergoing surgery to repair his torn quadriceps, a source briefed on his injury told NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport on Tuesday. U-T San Diego first reported the news.
The impact of Freeney's loss can't be overstated. The potential Hall of Famer was off to his best start in years. He toyed with Houston Texans All-Pro left tackle Duane Brown in the season opener and was second only to Chiefs outside linebacker Justin Houston in Pro Football Focus' pass-rushing metrics through four games.
Already playing without 2012 first-round draft pick Melvin Ingram, the Chargers don't have another proven edge rusher on their roster.
As if Freeney's injury isn't devastating enough, the Bolts will also have to do without Malcom Floyd.
A source who has spoken to Floyd tells Rapoport that the wide receiver will also be sent to injured reserve with a neck injury that led to Floyd being carted off the field two weeks ago.
At this point, Floyd is expected to avoid surgery, according to Fox Sports' Mike Garafolo.
Third-round rookie Keenan Allen will continue to fill in as the "X" receiver after toasting Cowboys cornerback Morris Claiborne for 80 yards on five receptions in Week 4.
If Allen and Vincent Brown solidify starting jobs over the final 12 games, the Chargers might wonder if Floyd's $2.75 million salary for 2014 is dispensable.
The "Around The League Podcast" reviewed every Week 4 game. Click here to listen and subscribe.
