Chargers’ Uchenna Nwosu finally gets his spotlight

Every time Chargers outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu has been on the field, he has done something positive.

Nwosu’s hard work and effort hasn’t gotten the recognition that it deserves because he’s been the wingman to defensive end Melvin Ingram since entering the league in 2018.

However, Nwosu now controls the spotlight after Ingram was placed on the injured reserve due to a knee issue Saturday.

Despite limited action, Nwosu has shown glimpses what he has in a little over two seasons. In 44 games, six started, he posted 63 tackles, 35 quarterback pressures, 20 quarterback hits, nine tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks.

Since entering the league, Nwosu has primarily backed up Ingram at LEO, getting snaps when Ingram would come off the field. It wasn’t until this season when the team included the two in certain blitz packages, which still didn’t involve Nwosu frequently.

This past offseason, Nwosu bulked up to about 250 pounds for a potential permanent move to defensive end.

If Nwosu performs well as the starter in the absence of Ingram, that could be the ultimate determining factor if the franchise chooses to keep the 31-year old for one more go around or not since he is slated to be a free agent after this season.

Nwosu will have the opportunity to show his worth in an expanded role starting tomorrow against his former teammate, Panthers offensive tackle Russell Okung.