The Los Angeles Chargers were dealt a brutal blow after two key offensive weapons tested positive for COVID-19 this week. Star wide receiver Keenan Allen received a positive test on Monday and was subsequently placed on the COVID-19 list. He was joined by fellow wide receiver Mike Williams on Wednesday, per Mike Garafolo. The availability of both players is now in doubt for Sunday's battle with the New York Giants.
Four players were placed on the COVID-19 list today:
—#Chargers WR Mike Williams
—#Chargers CB Chris Harris
—#Saints RB Mark Ingram
—#WFT DE Montez SweatTwo were high-risk close contacts. That means they're out five days from contact, not from when they're put on the list.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 8, 2021
This paints a pretty grim picture for the Chargers' aerial attack against the Giants and could have significant impacts on Justin Herbert's fantasy football outlook for what could be many fantasy owners' final matchup of the regular season.
Should both Allen and Williams not be able to take the field due to their designations, Herbert will be without two of his most reliable pass-catching weapons. As a result, the Chargers could look to feed Austin Ekeler more frequently, limiting the number of throws Herbert makes in the game. If that's the case, Herbert's fantasy value would likely take a big hit, as he simply won't have the volume to produce like he normally does.
In regards to the potential for Williams to suit up on Sunday, NFL Network's Taylor Bisciotti offered further explanation.
If the contact was Monday, he could be activated Saturday.
We will talk to Staley in a moment.
— Taylor Bisciotti (@TaylorBisciotti) December 8, 2021
Allen is the team's leading receiver with 81 catches this year and Williams ranks third with 56. Herbert could be working with an offense highlighted by Ekeler, who has 57 catches, as his most reliable receiving threat. After Ekeler, Jared Cook is next on the team with 36 receptions, followed by Jalen Guyton who has caught 18 passes this season.
Guyton was impressive in Week 13, catching all four of his targets for 90 yards and a touchdown, so expect Herbert to look his way often on Sunday. Still, the potential lack of weapons at Herbert's disposal is certainly a cause for concern among fantasy football owners, who may want to consider exploring other options if Allen and Williams can't play.
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