Chargers GM: Russell Okung will not be ready for week 1

Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Russell Okung will not be ready to play week 1 against the Indianapolis Colts. Los Angeles Chargers general manager Tom Telesco made the announcement Thursday, which ESPN’s Eric D. Williams reported via Twitter.

The veteran tackle (and only starting caliber tackle on the team) is still recovering from a pulmonary embolism he suffered due to blood clots earlier in the Summer. The Chargers GM suggested the team would have a clearer picture of Okung’s timeline for return in a few weeks. Okung has been on the non-football injury list since last month and has missed all of training camp and the preseason.

In Okung’s place, the Chargers have tried to get by with the likes of Trent Scott, Sam Tevi, and Trey Pipkins, none of whom are credible starters at left tackle in the National Football League. As Saturday and the deadline to cut to 53 approaches, one has to hope not only that Okung is back soon, but that another team will shed a player that could slot in above the Chargers’ current tackle contenders.