Chargers News: Chargers announce Asante Samuel's status for Week 1

The Los Angeles Chargers are gearing up for their Week 1 clash against the Las Vegas Raiders, but they may face some challenges with player availability. Starting cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. has been listed as questionable due to a shoulder injury, creating uncertainty for the team's defense.

Samuel Jr. did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday but managed to participate in a limited capacity on Friday. Alongside him, cornerback Tarheeb Still is also questionable with a hip injury, while wide receiver D.J. Chark has been ruled out due to a hip issue.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Samuel Jr.'s status, there is optimism that he will be ready to play on Sunday. The cornerback position has been a significant concern for the Chargers, especially with the upcoming season. Samuel Jr. and Kristian Fulton are expected to lead the secondary, which has struggled in previous seasons.

The Chargers have made changes to their coaching staff, bringing in defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who previously had success with the Michigan Wolverines. His arrival has raised hopes for improvement in the secondary, which was one of the weakest in the league last year.

Related: Chargers News: D.J. Chark Heads to IR Ahead of Season Opener

Samuel Jr. is coming off a strong season, having recorded 63 tackles, two interceptions, and 13 passes defended. Drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, he has the potential to elevate his game further under Minter's guidance.