On Wednesday, Jim Harbaugh told reporters before practice that the team would open a 21-day activation window for both tight end David Njoku and linebacker Denzel Perryman. Activating both of these players would leave the Chargers with three remaining activations from IR for the remainder of the 2026 season.
Njoke joined the Chargers as a free agent this offseason and started his tenure with the Bolts on a high note in the team’s first two games, catching five passes for 58 yards against the Raiders before leaving that game with an injury.
Perryman has been on IR since before the start of the regular season. In his place, former undrafted free agent Del’Shawn Phillips became the starter at center along with Daiyan Henley. His return will bring back a veteran presence with plenty of experience, which is a positive even if the defense is getting through injuries on that side of the ball.
With the Chargers down to three remaining activations this year, they will have to make some tough choices about who is worth bringing back and who isn’t. Right now, left tackle Rashawn Slater, safety Derwin James, offensive lineman Trey Pipkins, fullback Alec Ingold, and backup quarterback Trey Lance are on IR.
Slater and James will surely take two of those spots — if it’s worth bringing them back for a season like this — but who will be that final activation? Maybe it’s someone who hasn’t been injured. Holding it for later can be a wise choice.