LA Chargers News: Derwin James to have Surgery following Knee Injury in Practice

Derwin James Injury Update: the Pro-Bowl safety will continue to be evaluated after suffering a torn meniscus.

The 24 year old sustained a meniscus injury during practice on Sunday and did not return to the field. This morning, the Chargers announced there is no timeline for his return at the moment.

Derwin James Injury Update:

Safety Derwin James suffered a right knee injury during yesterday’s practice.

He will continue to be evaluated, and a timeframe for his return has not yet been determined.

— Los Angeles Chargers (@Chargers) August 31, 2020

It’s another unfortunate offseason injury for James. He was drafted by the Chargers in the first round in 2018 and was impressive in his rookie season. He earned Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections after tallying 3 interceptions, 3.5 sacks, and 105 tackles.

However, the former Seminole couldn’t carry the momentum into his sophomore year. He went down with a stress fracture in his foot before the 2019 season and required surgery. He landed on the IR, and stayed there until late November, missing 11 games.

Also read: 2020 NFL Rankings: Top 10 Safeties in NFL 2020 season

When Can He Return?

According to NFL Insider Ian Rapoport, James will undergo surgery sometime today. He has officially torn his meniscus and will “miss significant time”.

His return largely depends on the diagnosis and the operation he will require. If it is just a meniscus trim, James could be back in around 4 weeks. However, if the doctors choose to repair the meniscus entirely, the 2018 DPOY candidate could be out for several months.

From @GMFB: #Chargers do-it-all star S Derwin James is having surgery following a meniscus tear, and answers will come after the procedure. He’s out a significant amount of time, but just how much will be determined soon. pic.twitter.com/nPxErIcP8P

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 31, 2020

Also read: Budda Baker Contract : Arizona Cardinals Safety signs 4 year, $59 million extension, becomes highest paid safety in NFL history

Earl Thomas to the Chargers?

Rapoport also pointed out that LA could be a potential landing spot for superstar safety Earl Thomas. After James went down, the Chargers turned to Rayshawn Jenkins. Thomas is definitely the better player but his on-field performance is not what will hold the Chargers back.

It’s no secret that Thomas has some serious attitude concerns. He was released by the Ravens a week ago after he punched a teammate during practice. He also repeatedly missed team meetings. The Ravens stated “conduct detrimental to team” as the reason for his release.

If the Chargers do take a chance on Thomas though, there’s no doubt he can still play at a high level.

Also read: Earl Thomas Fight : Baltimore Ravens release Earl Thomas following training camp dispute