Derwin James Injury Update: Is Derwin James Playing Today?

Updated 24 October 2025 10:11 AM

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Derwin James Injury Update: Is Derwin James Playing Today?

Derwin James Injury Update: Is Derwin James Playing Today?

No, Derwin James isn’t playing today,  and honestly, that’s a heartbreaker if you’re a Chargers fan. The All-Pro safety went down with an ankle injury during Thursday night’s clash against the Minnesota Vikings, leaving after just one defensive series. You could almost feel the air leave the stadium when he trotted off the field. Later, cameras caught him on the sideline wearing a walking boot which is the kind of image that makes fans groan out loud, even if they’re watching from the other side of the country.

On Twitter, @SleeperNFL shared that Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. is questionable to return due to an ankle injury, according to the team.

For those keeping track, this is just another twist in what’s turning into a rough season of injuries for the Chargers. James has been their defensive heartbeat, already stacking 49 tackles and a pick through seven games before Week 8. Losing him mid-game felt like watching your chess queen get swiped in the opening moves. Sure, you can keep playing,  but it’s not the same kind of defense without him anchoring the secondary.

On Twitter, @NFLFrascella reported that Superstar Safety Derwin James will not return to tonight’s game, calling it a “killer loss.”

Word from the team is that it’s an ankle injury, and while the exact diagnosis hasn’t been made public, the use of a walking boot suggests it’s not something minor. Some insiders whisper about a possible high-ankle sprain, which can linger for weeks, sometimes longer if the team’s cautious. In short, no one’s expecting him back immediately. With Tony Jefferson also hobbling off later in the same game, the Chargers’ defense started to look a little like musical chairs, with rookies like RJ Mickens being thrown into the deep end.

Disclaimer: Player status and medical details are based on current team reports and media updates; final recovery timelines are subject to official confirmation.

Tags: Derwin James injury, Chargers injury update, Derwin James ankle, Chargers vs Vikings, Derwin James status, NFL Week 8 injuries, Los Angeles Chargers defense