Chargers vs Seahawks: Shocking Derwin James Inactive

Image Source: Los Angeles Chargers

Chargers vs Seahawks headlines for Week 4 took a major turn Sunday, as Los Angeles confirmed that safety Derwin James will miss the matchup against Seattle at Lumen Field. James was listed as questionable because of a hamstring injury, but the Chargers officially ruled him inactive before kickoff.

The news creates a significant defensive challenge for Los Angeles, which will face the Seahawks on Sunday, October 4, 2026. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:25 p.m. Pacific Time in Seattle, where the Chargers enter the contest as underdogs according to the reported betting line.

Chargers vs Seahawks Inactives Bring Major Surprise

James was among five Chargers players listed as questionable on Friday. His absence removes one of Los Angeles’ most experienced and versatile defensive playmakers from the lineup. The team captain’s ability to cover, blitz and organize the secondary will be missed against a Seattle offense playing at home.

While James will not suit up, the Chargers received encouraging news at several other positions. Wide receiver Ladd McConkey, who was also questionable with a foot injury, is active and expected to play. McConkey’s availability gives the offense an important receiving option and provides quarterback Justin Herbert with another trusted target.

Three additional Chargers listed as questionable are active: linebacker Elijah Molden, quarterback Trey Lance and cornerback Donte Jackson. Their availability gives Los Angeles more depth as the team prepares for a physical road game against the Seahawks.

Derwin James Out, Ladd McConkey Ready

McConkey’s return is particularly valuable because the Chargers had already lost several players to injuries. His route-running, reliability and ability to create separation can help Los Angeles move the ball in a matchup expected to test both teams.

Lance is active after being listed with a groin injury, while Molden will play despite his hamstring issue. Jackson also cleared the final pregame hurdle after being listed with a concussion. The trio strengthens the Chargers’ available roster, even as James’ absence remains the biggest development of the afternoon.

Complete Los Angeles Chargers Inactive List

The Chargers announced seven inactive players for the Week 4 game. James is the most prominent name, while the remaining absences affect the offensive line, defensive front, tight end room and wide receiver depth.

• S Derwin James
• QB DJ Uiagalelei, emergency third quarterback
• OL Alex Harkey
• G Kayode Awosika
• TE Charlie Kolar
• WR Brenen Thompson
• DT Dalvin Tomlinson

Awosika is inactive because of a fibula injury, while Thompson is dealing with a quad issue. Kolar is unavailable with a forearm injury, and Tomlinson will miss the game because of a hamstring problem. The Chargers had ruled all four players out on Friday.

DJ Uiagalelei will serve as the emergency third quarterback, meaning he would only enter the game under unusual circumstances involving the team’s other quarterbacks. Alex Harkey is also inactive, adding to the personnel adjustments Los Angeles must make.

Seattle Seahawks Inactives for Week 4

Seattle also announced seven inactive players ahead of the Chargers matchup. Quarterback Jalen Milroe is listed as the emergency third quarterback, while the Seahawks will be without players from their secondary, linebacker group, receiving corps, tight end unit and defensive line.

• QB Jalen Milroe, emergency third quarterback
• CB Avery Smith
• S Ty Okada
• LB Chazz Surratt
• WR Montorie Foster, Jr.
• TE Nick Kallerup
• NT Brandon Pili

The inactive lists set the stage for a meaningful early-season battle. Seattle has home-field advantage, while Los Angeles must find a way to replace James’ impact in the secondary without losing its defensive identity.

What the Inactives Mean for the Matchup

Without James, the Chargers may lean more heavily on their remaining safeties and adjust how they handle Seattle’s top offensive threats. Communication in the back end will be critical, particularly in a loud road environment at Lumen Field.

McConkey’s activation offers a counterbalance. His presence should help keep the Chargers’ passing attack balanced and may prevent Seattle from devoting excessive attention to Los Angeles’ other skill-position players. Herbert’s timing with McConkey could become one of the game’s pivotal storylines.

The Chargers’ inactive list also places more responsibility on the offensive line and defensive tackle rotation. Los Angeles will need solid protection, efficient early-down execution and disciplined run defense to overcome the personnel losses.

As the Chargers and Seahawks prepare to meet, the final injury decisions have added intrigue to an already important Week 4 contest. James is out, but McConkey, Lance, Molden and Jackson are ready to contribute. The result could depend on how quickly both teams adapt to their revised lineups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Derwin James playing against the Seahawks?

No. Derwin James is inactive for the Chargers’ Week 4 game against Seattle because of a hamstring injury.

Is Ladd McConkey active for the Chargers?

Yes. Ladd McConkey is active and will play after being listed as questionable with a foot injury.

Which Chargers players are inactive?

The Chargers inactives are Derwin James, DJ Uiagalelei, Alex Harkey, Kayode Awosika, Charlie Kolar, Brenen Thompson and Dalvin Tomlinson.

Where are the Chargers and Seahawks playing?

The game is being played at Lumen Field in Seattle. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:25 p.m. Pacific Time on October 4, 2026.