Chargers LT Okung returns from pulmonary embolism

Los Angeles Chargers left tackle Russell Okung said Thursday he is ready to return from the pulmonary embolism that has sidelined him since June. "I've been looking forward to this day for several weeks and I'm excited to officially announce that I will be back to football as early as Week 7," the 32-year-old posted on Twitter.

A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Okung has been on the reserve/non-football injury list throughout the Chargers' disappointing 2-4 start. It wasn't immediately clear when Okung would rejoin practice or whether he would be activated for Sunday's game in Nashville against the Tennessee Titans (2-4).

Okung is in his third season with Los Angeles following one year in Denver (2016) and six with Seattle (2010-15). He has started 118 regular-season games and 14 playoff games, including the Seahawks' 43-8 win against Denver in Super Bowl XLVIII. Okung was diagnosed after he experienced discomfort in his chest and went to an urgent-care facility on June 1. He called it a "near death experience" at the time.

"Being sidelined after suffering a pulmonary embolism earlier this year has been an intense battle that I'm thankful to put behind me," he tweeted. "... Big thanks as always to the fans who have responded to my health status with care and compassion, looking forward to being back in action!" While the Chargers received good news in relation to Okung, the team announced that wide receiver Travis Benjamin has been placed on injured reserve.

Benjamin, who has been sidelined by a quadriceps injury, recorded six receptions for 30 yards in five games this season. The 29-year-old has collected 208 catches for 3,143 yards with 19 touchdowns in 101 games (37 starts) over eight seasons with the Cleveland Browns and Chargers.

The Chargers signed defensive tackle T.Y. McGill to take the available roster spot. McGill, 26, registered two tackles in four games last season for the team. The North Carolina State product has appeared in 34 regular-season games and has totaled 23 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and one forced fumble in four previous seasons with the Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns and Philadelphia Eagles.

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