Chargers Expected to Open David Njoku’s 21-Day Practice Window

Coach Jim Harbaugh says Njoku’s near-term return could give Los Angeles a needed offensive option as the team decides whether to activate him for Week 9.

Overview

Coach Jim Harbaugh said Njoku is likely to begin his 21-day practice window this week and is expected to return to practice for the Chargers.
Njoku suffered a fibula injury in Week 2 and has missed the past five games after being placed on injured reserve.
The Chargers have relied on Oronde Gadsden and Charlie Kolar at tight end during Njoku’s absence and his return could shift their roles.
Harbaugh also reported that guard Kayode Awosika will begin practice work, cornerbacks Donte Jackson and Rodney Shelley are ramping up from hamstrings, Brennen Thompson likely will not practice after a quad/hamstring setback, and Deane Leonard remains in concussion protocol.
Under NFL rules the 21-day window lets the team evaluate Njoku in practice before deciding whether to activate him to the 53-man roster, a choice that will affect Week 9 availability and short-term roster planning for a team still seeking its first win.