COSTA MESA, Calif. – For the last four years, Kellen Clemens has been Philip Rivers’ wing man.
He shares a 90-minute commute with his fellow veteran quarterback every day from north of San Diego to the team’s headquarters in Orange County. And Clemens also serves as Rivers’ eyes and ears off the field, the two often conferring between series during games about what he sees from the sideline.
But with Rivers self-reporting concussion symptoms on Monday and entering the NFL concussion protocol, Clemens could make his first start since 2013 on Sunday when the Los Angeles Chargers host the Buffalo Bills.
The University of Oregon product has served as Rivers’ backup for four seasons. Rivers was a limited participant in a non-padded practice on Wednesday.
“I’m fortunate to have been here for four years,” Clemens said. “The offense didn’t change much in the offseason despite the change that was made at the top. And Philip has been great. For three and a half years now, he’s been an open book sharing his thoughts why he does things.
“So it’s no different this week than any other week. I have to be ready if I’m called upon. Everybody hopes that Philip’s going to be out there and ready to go. [Everybody] hopes that he’s OK physically -- that’s the most important thing. But if called upon, I’ll be ready to go.”
Chargers offensive coordinator Ken Whisenhunt said he has confidence that Clemens can efficiently run the offense if he starts against the Bills. Whisenhunt said Clemens is one of the sharpest backup quarterbacks he’s had during his time as a coach in the NFL.
“He’s been in this system for a number of years, so he’s comfortable with it,” Whisenhunt said. “There are certainly things with Kellen that he’s comfortable with, and if that’s the case, those are the areas that you go with.
“You don’t want to try and make him do too much. Maybe you have a little bit cut down.”
Clemens said he’s pleased the tough-minded Rivers reported his concussion symptoms.
“Concussions, especially the light that’s been shone on it the last 10 years -- head injuries and things of that nature need to be taken seriously,” Clemens said. “So I admire him for the way that he handled it.”
Clemens also admires Rivers’ durability, making 194 straight starts (including playoffs) since taking over as the Chargers’ starting quarterback in 2006. The only other quarterbacks ahead of Rivers on the all-time list in NFL history are Brett Favre (321), Peyton Manning (227) and Eli Manning (220).
Clemens served as Favre’s backup while with the New York Jets in 2008.
“It’s incredible,” Clemens said. “I had the chance to play behind Favre when I was in New York, and he’s probably got the record that will never be touched.
“So I’ve played behind two guys who are absolute iron men. It’s incredible to see their toughness week in and week out. So it’s just one more feather in his cap for the things he’s been able to accomplish at this position.”