Chargers are confident Ekeler will play in season opener.
COSTA MESA >> Chargers coach Brandon Staley didn’t make promises, but he hinted that running back Austin Ekeler would likely play in Sunday’s season opener against the Washington Football Team.
Ekeler returned to practice Friday as a limited participant and was listed on the Week 1 injury report as questionable. Ekeler missed Wednesday’s and Thursday’s practices because of a hamstring injury.
“He looked good out there,” Staley said when asked about Ekeler playing Sunday. “Optimistic for sure.”
Staley said Ekeler felt discomfort in his hamstring during Monday’s practice. Ekeler worked on the side and assisted teammates with drills during the two practices he missed.
“It wasn’t anything significant,” Staley said about Ekeler’s hamstring injury. “We just wanted to make sure that these first couple days of the week of practice that he kinda regenerated and got out all that discomfort out there. Yesterday he was moving well and today he practiced.”
Staley said he’ll probably have three of the four running backs on the gameday roster, which is another indication that Ekeler will likely play in Washington.
Justin Jackson could be in line to see an increase in snaps if Ekeler isn’t 100 percent healthy. Joshua Kelley and rookie Larry Rountree III are the other running backs on the 53-man roster.
There isn’t doubt about right tackle Bryan Bulaga’s playing status. Bulaga was removed from the Week 1 injury report and practiced fully the entire week. He’s been dealing with a hip and groin injury the past few weeks.
“I was really proud of him,” Staley said about Bulaga. “He battled through that discomfort . ... He’s just a pro’s pro. Guy’s got real toughness and I appreciate him and it’s that type of toughness that we’re going to need moving forward.”
Defensive back Trey Marshall (ankle) was ruled out and fullback Gabe Nabers (knee) was removed from the injury report. Wide receiver Curtis Samuel was the only player on Washington’s injury report. Samuel was placed on the injured reserve list because of a groin injury.
Derwin, Bosa reunite
Chargers safety Derwin James said he was excited about playing in his first regular-season opener with edge rusher Joey Bosa.
The stars have only played in 12 regular-season games together since James entered the league in 2018. Bosa missed the first nine games of James’ rookie season because of a foot injury.
James has missed 27 games the past two seasons, including both season openers, because of injuries.
“I’m excited,” James said. “I love that dude Bosa. He brings a lot of energy, and he’s a great player to play with. We always talk about if both of us out there it’s going to be a problem for the offense. Finally, both of us get to go out there on Sunday.”
James is expected to play multiple positions, from safety to linebacker to edge rusher. James said he’s learned tricks from Bosa on how to rush the passer.
“Joey’s shown me a lot,” James said. “How to constantly work my hands. How to use my speed to my advantage. Of course, what works for him may not work for me. But (he teaches me how) to use my stuff to my advantage, going against running backs and tight ends.”
Allen on facing Washington
Washington’s defensive line gets most of the attention, but Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen isn’t overlooking its secondary.
Allen will likely be matched often with cornerback William Jackson III, who left the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency to join Washington. Safety Landon Collins is healthy again after only playing in seven games last season.
“Physical,” Allen said to describe the Washington secondary. “Obviously, they have Landon Collins back, bringing in some energy there. (Jackson) is a great guy, a great athlete. I liked him in Cincinnati. I thought he played well last year against us. He competes well. A first-round guy, so you have to bring your A-game.”