In the offseason, the Los Angeles Chargers went through some changes in their roster. During this, they landed Ladd McConkey out of the University of Georgia in Round 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft. And since then, he has impressed the quarterback, Justin Herbert, who recently talked about his connection with the rookie.

During a recent press conference, Justin Herbert was asked about Ladd McConkey and how he is benefitting the team. The quarterback praised him by saying, “I think we consider him a 6-year, 7-year vet. And just the way he’s been able to attack it, you can count on him, on third down especially.” Remember, the Saints vs Chargers game in October 2024?

In that matchup, Herbert connected with the wide receiver on a 60-yard touchdown. This spectacular connection helped the Chargers to make a 16-5 lead over their rivals. And eventually, helped them later to win the game 26-8.

Hence, Justin Herbert knows that “he’s a guy that’s going to make plays. And as long as I get him the ba-l, find ways to get him the ba-l, he does such a great job of getting open.” That’s the reason, Herbert now believes that “something good is going to happen” again in their final regular season game, which is against the Raiders.

Now, it’s not for the first time Justin Herbert has praised his WR. Earlier too, during the offseason program, McConkey impressed the QB with his combination of route-running and electric speed. At that time, Herbert said, “He’s just picked up the offense so easily, It’s like he’s been a four- or five-year vet. He understands the game.”

Well, their strong connection can also be witnessed from the stats. According to StatMuse, under Justin Herbert, McConkey has had 77 catches for 1054 yards with 7 touchdowns in 15 games. Hence, the quarterback believes they two have a strong bond with each other on and off-the-field. But the crucial question here is: Will he play against the Raiders, as McConkey’s name was listed in the injury report earlier this week.

Is Justin Herbert’s offense active for Week 18?

Justin Herbert and his Chargers are ready to play against the Raiders on January 5, 2025. However, the QB’s offense has thinned out due to multiple injuries. According to the Chargers’s official X account, four players are listed under the injured reserve list. RB Gus Edwards, who is dealing with his ankle issues, did not practice on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Hence, he is out of the Week 18 game. Additionally, WR Joshua Palmer too failed to participate in those three days due to his foot injury. Hence, he too will be out.

Besides them, safety Alohi Gilman (hamstring) was limited on Wednesday and Thursday. But he fully participated on Friday. Likewise, Denzel Perryman (groin) is doubtful for the next game, as he had a limited participation in those three days.

Nevertheless, one good news for Herbert and the Chargers’s community is that rookie Ladd McConkey, who too was on the injury list due to his toe issues, will be playing against the Raiders.