Hayden Hurst's Stats, Metrics, Game Logs, Projections & Rankings

The Los Angeles Chargers plan to activate tight end Hayden Hurst (hip) from Injured Reserve to play in Thursday's divisional clash against the visiting Denver Broncos, according to a source. Hurst landed on IR in late November with a hip injury, but he has practiced in full since having his 21-day practice window opened this week. It's good timing for the 31-year-old with fellow tight end Will Dissly (shoulder) already ruled out for Week 16. Hurst last played in Week 10, though, so it's fair to expect him to be on a limited snap count in his first game back on a short week. Additionally, Hurst won't be a viable starting option in fantasy in a tough matchup against the stout Broncos defense. Hurst should work alongside Stone Smartt, who will be the better TE2 streaming upside play in DFS and deeper fantasy leagues. Hurst caught only seven passes for 65 yards on 12 targets in seven games before going on IR.

The Los Angeles Chargers have listed tight end Hayden Hurst (hip) as questionable and ruled tight end Will Dissly (shoulder) out for Thursday's game against the Denver Broncos. Hurst has been on the injured reserve since suffering a hip injury during Week 9, and seeing him log two straight full practices this week suggests he has a great chance to return on Thursday. Dissly was out last weekend with a shoulder injury and was unable to participate in any practices this week. With both tight ends battling injuries, Stone Smart led the way last weekend, tallying 50 yards on five receptions. Hurst should be expected to reclaim the top role if he can return on Thursday. Before his IR stint, Hurst only averaged a mere 14.8 yards per game, which could open the door for Smart to see an increased No.2 role. Given the uncertainty, Hurst is best to leave out of your lineup, while Smart should only be started if Hurst cannot play.

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hayden Hurst (hip) was designated to return from the injured reserve on Monday. Hurst only missed the minimum of four games after being placed on the injured reserve in late-November. The 31-year-old was able to get through a full practice on Tuesday. That is great news, but it still seems unlikely that Hurst will be able to suit up for Thursday's game against the Denver Broncos. Fellow tight end Will Dissly (shoulder) has missed back-to-back practice sessions and is likely to sit out another week. That being said, Stone Smartt figures to be in line for another start after a five-catch performance on Sunday. He could be an interesting TE2 option for fantasy managers lacking depth at tight end.