Is Ladd McConkey playing today? Exploring Chargers WR's status for Week 17

Ladd McConkey's contributions to the Los Angeles Chargers offense have been noticeable in his rookie season. He had an outstanding game against the Denver Broncos, hauling in six receptions for 87 yards.

McConkey ranks fourth among rookies in receiving yards and has three outings this season with at least 100 yard.

When the Bolts face the New England Patriots in Week 17, fans will hope that the former Georgia wide receiver, who has had a strong start to his pro football career, continues to show why he's a vital component of the offense.

If McConkey helps the Chargers secure a win on Saturday, he could guarantee a postseason berth in Jim Harbaugh's first season as they eye their first appearance in the playoffs since 2022.

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Exploring Ladd McConkey's availability status for Week 17

Unless there's any last-minute injury, wide receiver Ladd McConkey is expected to play against the New England Patriots on Saturday, as he's not on the Los Angeles Chargers' injury report this week.

After missing the Week 14 game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to hip and back issues, McConkey has since made a full recovery and is back to playing.

With McConkey available, the Chargers also confirmed on Friday that starting running back J.K. Dobbins has been activated from injured reserve. The veteran running back is expected to play against the Patriots for the first time since suffering a sprained knee in Week 12.

The three players Los Angeles ruled out on its final injury report are running back Gus Edwards (ankle), linebacker Denzel Perryman (groin) and tackle Trey Pipkins III (hip).

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How has Ladd McConkey performed this season?

Ladd McConkey was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers with the 34th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. He has since emerged as quarterback Justin Herbert's first choice in offense this season.

The 23-year-old wideout leads the team in receptions (69), yards (960) and touchdowns (5) going into Week 17. He has recorded three games with over 100 yards and has never taken part in an NFL game with fewer than 20 receiving yards in his rookie campaign.

McConkey needs just three catches and 87 yards to surpass Keenan Allen's Chargers rookie marks. The wide receiver has shown promise in the early going and appears to be one who could be relied upon for years to come.