RJ Mickens: Everything you need to know

Mickens had 29 tackles (18 solo) and two interceptions over 12 regular-season games for the Chargers in 2025. Mickens was utilized as a rotational safety and middle-field option behind the primary starters Derwin James and Elijah Molden. The rookie logged a strong start to his career with interceptions against the Vikings in Week 8 and the Steelers in Week 10, becoming one of the relatively few players in NFL history to intercept Aaron Rodgers. He will likely start his sophomore season in a rotational role once again, as both James and Molden have signed long-term deals with the Chargers.

Mickens (shoulder) is active for Sunday's contest against the Broncos. Mickens is good to go for Week 18 after missing the team's last two games while nursing a shoulder issue. With Derwin James (coach's decision) inactive for the regular-season finale, Mickens could draw the start at strong safety versus Denver.

Mickens (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Broncos, Eric Smith of the Chargers' official site reports. Mickens posted an LP/LP/FP practice log during Week 18 prep and has a chance to return from a two-game absence due to a shoulder injury. The rookie sixth-rounder has worked in a rotational role in the secondary but could see more defensive snaps Sunday if Elijah Molden (hamstring) is not cleared to play.