Chargers WR Alex Erickson steps up in Keenan Allen, Joshua Palmer’s absence

Alex Erickson raised some eyebrows in the loss to the Broncos.

The Chargers were without top wide receivers Keenan Allen and Joshua Palmer on Sunday against the Broncos.

While they were sidelined with their respective injuries, Alex Erickson took advantage of his bigger role.

Erickson led the team in receiving with seven catches for 98 yards, marking the second-highest totals in those categories of his career.

“Alex is a really good player and I’m really grateful we have him,” Easton Stick said. “A veteran in that room I think is really good right now. Obviously, with our injuries, he’s kind of like that stabilizing, calming force, he can fix many things and he’s seen a lot of football.”

After standing out with the Jets during this past preseason, Erickson was signed to the Chargers practice squad ahead of the 2023 season. He remained there until he was signed to the active roster on Dec. 2.

Erickson made himself known in the Week 13 victory over the Patriots when he hauled a 23-yard reception to seal the game.

In five games, Erickson has 14 receptions on 24 targets for 203 yards and a touchdown.

If Allen or Palmer remain out for the season finale against the Chiefs, Erickson will have the opportunity to capitalize on that performance and garner some attention as he will be seeking a new contract this offseason.