Chargers HC Jim Harbaugh reveals why Ladd McConkey didn’t play vs. Broncos

The Los Angeles Chargers suffered their first loss in 23 years, falling to 0-5, after a hard-fought 17-16 defeat against the Denver Broncos. Head coach Jim Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel were without star wide receiver Ladd McConkey due to injuries. McConkey had injured his foot before week four and suffered another injury, a rib injury, during the team's loss to the Arizona Cardinals in week one.

Despite his availability, McConkey was only available for an emergency scenario. Quarterback Justin Herbert and the air attack struggled in his absence, finishing with 14-of-24 passing for 121 yards and one touchdown, while getting picked off once by Brandon Jones. Tight end Charlie Kolar and running back Keaton Mitchell were the leading recipients, but both failed to make a significant impact, with Kolar catching three passes for 37 yards and Mitchell adding 18 yards on three catches.

Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Tre Harris contributed two catches each. Denver capitalized on the Chargers' misfortune, forcing a comeback from a 10-3 halftime deficit by scoring 14 points in the fourth quarter, ultimately winning the game. The Chargers must now avoid a 0-6 start, having previously endured such a dismal season in 2000.