Gordon questionable, Ekeler out, Ware doubtful for TNF

Thursday night's marquee AFC West showdown between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs may be missing several of the game's biggest stars.

The Chargers ruled out running back Austin Ekeler due to a concussion and a neck issue on Wednesday; Melvin Gordon remains questionable with a knee injury but will make the trip to Kansas City, according to Field Yates of ESPN.

Gordon called himself a game-time decision on Tuesday, while head coach Anthony Lynn said he wasn't optimistic about the availability of either running back. Rookie Justin Jackson will take on an expanded role in place of Ekeler, while Detrez Newsome will likely see some extra work if Gordon is ruled out.

Jackson, a seventh-round pick of the 2018 NFL Draft, has compiled 132 rushing yards and 42 receiving yards with one touchdown on the ground over the past three games since Gordon initially suffered his injury in Week 12.

Newsome has just five carries for 15 yards in his rookie campaign.

The Chiefs listed running back Spencer Ware as doubtful as he battles shoulder and hamstring issues. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill was questionable with heel and wrist ailments, but he will play, a source told ESPN's Adam Schefter. Receiver Sammy Watkins remains out due to a foot problem.

Damien Williams is in line to start at running back for the Chiefs should Ware be ruled out. The fifth-year rusher had 30 yards from scrimmage with two total touchdowns against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 14.

There had been some initial concern regarding Hill coming out of Sunday's contest, but further examination on Monday reportedly showed "nothing serious."

Thursday's meeting could play a huge role in deciding the AFC West. The Chiefs won the first game between the two sides in Week 1 and hold the division lead at 11-2, while the Chargers are 10-3 through 14 weeks.