Chargers TE Gerald Everett’s hip injury could prove costly

Gerald Everett initially was given a groin injury diagnosis in an official mid-game communication against the Chiefs on his status. Later on, head coach Brandon Staley revealed that Everett was actually dealing with a hip injury. On Wednesday’s practice report prior to the Sunday night matchup against the Bears, Everett was a non-participant with the aforementioned hip designation.

wednesday’s #CHIvsLAC injury report pic.twitter.com/GiGbxiZY5r

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) October 25, 2023

Not having Everett this week or for an extended period would prove costly from a blocking perspective for the Chargers. Tre’ McKitty and Stone Smartt rank 82nd and 84th, respectively, of 87 graded tight ends on Pro Football Focus. Donald Parham, traditionally a decent blocker, has also declined in performance this year as the 73rd-ranked tight end. It’s worth noting that he is specifically playing through his wrist injury recovery.

In Parham’s defense, he has been a big part of the Chargers’ red zone identity, as Kellen Moore has given him quality targets. Using his size and leverage in that area is huge for LA. But between the 20-yard lines, Everett is the team’s best receiving tight end in space. That’s in addition to being their best blocker.

McKitty was a healthy scratch last week against Kansas City. Asked about that as his media availability, Staley said the decision was more of a matchup-specific issue than anything regarding the former third-round draft pick. If Everett can’t go, McKitty would have to be active. It’s also possible that Nick Vannett could be activated off of the practice squad for the first time this season.

We’ll have to monitor Everett’s progress throughout the week to see if he can contribute for the Chargers on Sunday Night Football against Chicago.