LA Chargers will have to overcome another big injury blow this season if they hope to make a run for the playoffs. The team confirmed on Thursday that they are placing Pro Bowl center Mike Pouncey on injured reserve as the 31-year-old player is set to have a season-ending back surgery.
Pouncey is Chargers’ second key player to go down in 2020 after star safety Derwin James tore his meniscus back in training camp.
This will be the second consecutive year in which Pouncey ends his season prematurely. He played only five games in 2019, before being shut down due to season-ending neck surgery.
With this latest injury, there is a real possibility that Mike Pouncey played his last game with the Chargers. He is set to become a free agent in March, having signed a one-year extension last year.
However, it would be surprising if he stays considering that Chargers’ general manager Tom Telesco remains high on him.
“On top of being a Pro Bowl talent, he’s the ultimate captain, teammate, and competitor,” said Telesco shortly after Pouncey landed on IR. “Quite simply, he’s one of the best leaders I’ve ever been around. Mike’s played a major role in establishing the culture and standard we now have in our locker room and sets a tremendous example, especially for the younger members of our team. I’m happy he’ll remain around the team throughout the season, and all of us wish Mike a successful procedure and speedy recovery.”
Aside from the Chargers, Mike Pouncey also played with Miami Dolphins through his NFL career. He has 114 career starts and has made the Pro Bowl four times.
