The Facts: The Chargers are still hoping to avoid it, but Williams, their first-round pick, might need back surgery on his herniated disk that would end his rookie season, league sources tell ESPN.

Diehards Line: Williams recently received a second epidural on his herniated disk in a last-ditch effort to have him ready at some time during training camp, though the Chargers are preparing as if he will not be ready by that time, sources tell ESPN's Adam Schefter. The team still is hoping that Williams will respond positively to the second epidural, but also knows there's a real chance he will not and his rookie year will be over before it begins. Williams was diagnosed with a herniated disk after his first practice during rookie minicamp and did not practice again. The Chargers picked Williams with the seventh overall pick, and he showed up in Los Angeles with a bad back. ... We'll follow up as needed.