Chargers Place Lance Penning on Injured Reserve Before Broncos Game

The Los Angeles Chargers placed quarterback Trey Lance and offensive lineman Trevor Penning on injured reserve before their game against the Denver Broncos, reshaping the roster after injuries. The moves came as Los Angeles activated Scott Matlock and Branson Taylor from injured reserve, according to NBC Sports and Pro Football Rumors. Lance had been ruled out with a groin injury and will miss at least four games after the Chargers moved him to injured reserve, according to NBC Sports.

DJ Uiagalelei will become Justin Herbert’s backup. The Chargers also placed Penning on injured reserve after he suffered a concussion against the Seahawks in Week 4, according to Pro Football Rumors. The move followed Rashawn Slater’s earlier placement on the list.

Los Angeles activated fullback Scott Matlock and offensive lineman Branson Taylor from injured reserve, according to NBC Sports and Bolts From The Blue. Matlock had missed the opening four games with a foot injury, while Taylor was sidelined by shoulder and neck issues.

Matlock returned after emerging as a key special teams contributor in previous seasons, according to Pro Football Rumors. The fourth-year player also recorded offensive and defensive snaps during earlier Chargers seasons. Taylor, a sixth-round pick last year, was a contender for the starting left guard role during the offseason before Kayode Awosika won the position, according to Pro Football Rumors. Awosika later suffered a fibula injury and missed multiple games.

The roster changes also included wide receiver Theo Wease signing from the practice squad, according to NBC Sports. Offensive lineman Daniel Brunskill and cornerback Isas Waxter were elevated for the Denver game. Because of injuries across the offensive line, Pro Football Rumors reported that rookie Jake Slaughter was set to start at left guard, with Logan Taylor at left tackle and Jacob Spomer at center against Denver.