The Chargers have downgraded WR Mike Williams from questionable to out for Saturday night's game against the Jaguars, because of the back injury he suffered in Week 18 against the Broncos. That boosts the outlook for Chargers WRs Josh Palmer and DeAndre Carter, who have each moved up our WR rankings for the week. HC Brandon Staley has taken a lot of flak this week for the way he handled starters in a game his team didn't need. But he at least did coaches everywhere a service by clearly reminding everyone why you rest key players in those situations. We'll see about Williams' status for Round 2, if the Chargers advance.

Chargers WR Mike Williams underwent successful surgery on Wednesday (October 25) to repair his torn ACL, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Williams is expected to be ready for the start of training camp, which will be about nine months post-surgery. His contract currently carries a $32.5 million cap hit in 2024, so the Chargers will surely be looking to restructure. Williams turned 29 earlier this month.

Chargers WR Mike Williams has been diagnosed with a torn left ACL and will miss the rest of the 2023 season, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The timing of the injury at least gives Williams a good chance to be ready for the start of the 2024 campaign. He turns 29 in about a week and is officially signed with the Chargers for next season. But his contract currently carries a $32.5 million cap hit. Williams will need to restructure that deal to remain with the team. His absence for the rest of this season leaves behind big opportunity. Williams averaged 8.7 targets on a 21.3% share through three games. WR Josh Palmer is the better immediate bet for production with Williams out. But first-round rookie WR Quentin Johnston is the higher-upside longer-term bet. WR Keenan Allen, RB Austin Ekeler (once healthy), and TE Gerald Everett should also see a bit more volume without Williams.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that the Chargers fear WR Mike Williams may have suffered a "potentially" season-ending left knee injury in Sunday's win over the Vikings. He'll have an MRI today to confirm the diagnosis. Losing Williams would present opportunity to rookie WR Quentin Johnston and third-year WR Josh Palmer. Each will be worth a look on the waiver wire this week, with Johnston carrying more upside.

Chargers WR Mike Williams rode a cart to the bus with his left leg in a brace after Sunday's win over the Vikings, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. Williams is scheduled for a Monday MRI, but this obviously looks like a serious injury. We should learn more tomorrow.

Chargers WR Mike Williams suffered an apparent left knee injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game vs. the Vikings. He needed a couple of trainers to help him off the field. Stay tuned for an update.