Raiders rule out 4 defensive starters vs. Chargers

HENDERSON, Nev. — The Las Vegas Raiders will be without four defensive starters for their crucial Thursday night home game against the Los Angeles Chargers, a less-than-optimal start for new interim defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli.

Defensive end Clelin Ferrell (shoulder), linebacker Nicholas Morrow (concussion), cornerback Damon Arnette (concussion) and safety Johnathan Abram (concussion) will all sit out, Raiders coach Jon Gruden announced Wednesday.

With rookie receiver Henry Ruggs on the reserve/COVID-19 list, four of the Raiders’ five first-round picks over the past two years will be unavailable for Las Vegas (7-6) as it tries to keep alive its flagging playoff hopes against the Chargers (4-9). The fifth first-rounder, running back Josh Jacobs, is dealing with an injured right ankle.