It appears the Chargers will open the season without one of their best defensive players.
All-Pro safety Derwin James is set to miss a "significant amount of time" after suffering a foot injury in practice Thursday, NFL Media reported Friday.
The team said James broke the fifth metatarsal in his right foot and a course of treatment is still being determined.
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Chargers beat writers noted earlier in the day that James was wearing a walking boot.
Chargers safety Derwin James has a walking boot on his right leg and is not practicing today. Not good.
— Eric Williams (@eric_d_williams) August 16, 2019
Losing the 23-year-old for an extended period would be a significant blow to the Los Angeles defense.
The former Florida State standout was the 17th overall pick in last year's draft and started all 16 games as a rookie, making the Pro Bowl and earning first-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press and Pro Football Writers of America.
The Chargers already are playing without running back Melvin Gordon, who is holding out of camp in a contract dispute.
