The Chargers dropped to 4-7 after losing to the Chiefs on Monday night, which nearly closed their playoff window.
With the chances of Los Angeles playing in January being slim, there are a lot of people wondering if it would still be worth bringing safety Derwin James back into the mix as opposed to letting him rest.
On Tuesday, coach Anthony Lynn assured that James is still in the team’s plans, and will play when he is medically cleared no matter what the team’s record suggests.
“If we got healthy players as good as DJ, if he can play, he’s gonna play. We’re not tanking, guys. We’re 4-7. Last time I checked, we have five games left,” Lynn said, per Orange County Register’s Gilbert Manzano.
James hasn’t played this season as he has used that time recovering from a foot injury that he sustained back in August, weeks before the season opener. James has been doing speed and agility drills the past couple of weeks, as he prepares to return.
“I’m feeling well, feeling better, getting better every day. Just taking it day-by-day. It’s real close, real soon. I can say that. So just taking it day-by-day. Working hard to get back out there,” James told NFL Total Access’ Lindsay Rhodes.
James was asked whether he expects to be back for Los Angeles’ Week 13 matchup against the Broncos, and he responded with a smile, “Stay tuned.”
James and his teammate Adrian Phillips, who injured his forearm in September, will look to return after the bye week.
Their presence will add a huge boost to a defense that already ranks near the top of the league. But it’s uncertain if it’s enough to get the whole team to the playoffs based on their current standing.
