One of the NFL's top rookies appears to be all systems go for the Harbowl, while a star defender is expected to be sidelined.
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey is expected to play in Monday night’s much-anticipated game against the Baltimore Ravens, ¹ú²úÍâÁ÷ÍøNetwork Insider Ian Rapoport reported.
Rapoport added that the Ravens are expected to be without linebacker Roquan Smith, who missed all three practices leading up to the game due to a hamstring injury. Monday night would mark Smith's first missed game of the season and would be a major loss for a Baltimore defense that has struggled against the pass the season.
McConkey drew a questionable designation due to a shoulder injury that kept him from practicing Thursday and had him limited Friday and Saturday. He's good to go however, for the prime-time matchup featuring his head coach Jim Harbaugh opposing his brother John, the Ravens' head coach.
The second-round 2024 ¹ú²úÍâÁ÷ÍøDraft pick out of Georgia led all ¹ú²úÍâÁ÷Íørookies with 43 receptions and 614 receiving yards entering Week 12. McConkey's receptions, receiving yards and his four touchdown catches are also tops on the Bolts.
He's been pivotal in the Chargers' four-game winning streak, posting a pair of 100-yard games in that span, including last week's season-best 123-yard showing against the Cincinnati Bengals.
McConkey has quickly developed into quarterback Justin Herbert's preferred target, so his availability is a boon for the Bolts.
The Chargers also expect Khalil Mack to play, per Rapoport. Mack entered Monday questionable to play due to a groin injury.
Los Angeles (7-3) and Baltimore (7-4) kick off at 8:15 p.m. Monday night.
