Chargers News: What's The Injury Status Of Hunter Henry? Tight End May Be Available In Playoffs, Say GM

Los Angeles Chargers tight end Hunter Henry will have to wait another week before he can suit up for the first time since 2017. According to the NFL Network's insider Ian Rapoport, Henry is likely to be activated before the final deadline on Monday.

Henry, who tore his right ACL in May during practice, hasn't played since Dec. 16, 2017. The 24-year-old made improbable progress and by mid-December the possibility opened up of a return in the playoffs and as early as Sunday's matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

"We want to give a good look at him this week to see where he's at," head coach Anthony Lynn said this week, according to ESPN. "I like the progress that he's been making, but he hasn't played football for a long time -- since last December … so it's been a while. He's going to need to really show us that he's ready [to play].

"I believe that the knee is stable. We did some things last week and thought he looked really good. Now, it's just about conditioning, the chemistry with the offense and just playing football."

Chargers general manager Tom Telesco told NFL.com Saturday that the team and medical staff have taken a cautious approach with Henry.

"I want every doctor to be 100 percent. He's perfect. He'll be ready to roll. He's not quite there yet. He hasn't had any setbacks. It's just, seeing where he is, we figured it was best to hold him back," Telesco said.

Henry was the No. 35 pick in the 2016 draft. In two seasons, he has totaled 81 receptions for 1,057 yards and 12 touchdowns.

The Chargers are on the road Sunday against the Ravens in a wild-card matchup. Should Los Angeles advance, the Chargers would play next Sunday on the road against the New England Patriots.