Chargers place rookie Junior Colson on non-football illness list as training camp approaches

With training camp starting next week, the Chargers placed rookie linebacker Junior Colson on the non-football illness list.

The Colson notation was on the NFL’s transaction list, but no other information was provided. Here’s what it means. Colson can’t practice with the Chargers until LA removes him from the list. The first full practice at training camp is next Wednesday (July 24).

The Chargers selected Colson back in April with the 69th pick (in the third round) of the NFL Draft. And although he was a third-rounder, he held a special spot amongst the draft picks. After all, Jim Harbaugh is the new Chargers head coach. Harbaugh won a national title at Michigan in 2023 before leaving for the NFL. Colson represented the first Wolverine he selected to the team.

Meanwhile, the Chargers selected Michigan wide receiver Cornelius Johnson to finish off their draft. Johnson was pick No. 253 and in the seventh round.

Junior Colson was first Wolverine star selected by new Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh

LA’s first two selections were Notre Dame offensive tackle Joe Alt (pick No. 6) and Georgia receiver Ladd McConkey, who went at No. 34 in the second round.

Colson represented an important pick for the Chargers. He won the Lott IMPACT Trophy, which is given to the top college defender. But there’s more to the award. It also considers academics, character and community service.

In addition, NFL.com picked its all-rookie, “instant impact” defensive team. NFL.com wrote: “It seemed like a given that Jim Harbaugh would draft at least one of his former Michigan standouts this year, so seeing Colson land with the Chargers was no surprise. He should be in the mix from Day 1, filling running lanes and chasing backs to the outside whether it’s a stretch play or a throw to the flat. I expect him to crack the 100-tackle mark this season.”

Rookies reported to training camp two days ago. But the first full session with veterans will be the 24th.