In a last-minute turn of events, the Las Vegas Raiders have been hit with an injury concern just days before their highly anticipated season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Starting defensive end Malcolm Koonce will be sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during Thursday's practice, as confirmed by Raiders coach Antonio Peirce.

The extent of Koonce's injury and his timeline for return remain unknown at this time. However, speculation has arisen that the Raiders may be taking precautionary measures, considering the history of knee-related issues associated with the SoFi Stadium turf.

In Koonce's absence, the Raiders will depend on either Janarius Robinson or 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson to fill the vacant position opposite star pass-rusher Maxx Crosby. With limited NFL experience for both players, it is possible that the Raiders may opt to bring up defensive end Charles Snowden from the practice squad to provide additional depth in the game.

Despite their lack of experience, Coach Peirce has expressed confidence in Robinson and Wilson to step up and perform in this crucial matchup against a formidable Chargers' defensive front. The pressure will be on both players to make a significant impact and contribute to the Raiders' defensive efforts.

Koonce, an integral part of the Raiders' defense, showcased his abilities last season with an impressive tally of eight sacks out of his ten career sacks. His performance in the final few games was particularly noteworthy, establishing himself as a dominating force on the field.

As the Raiders prepare for the season opener, the team is expected to release their official injury report later today, providing updates on any other player concerns. This article will be updated to reflect any new information regarding the team's roster and potential changes in the defensive lineup.

With the absence of Koonce, the Raiders will face a challenge in maintaining their defensive prowess against the Chargers. However, with promising young players ready to step up, Las Vegas remains determined to start the season on a positive note and showcase their resilience on the field.