The Chargers designated Hurst (hip) for return from injured reserve Monday, Daniel Popper of The Athletic reports.
Hurst has already missed the minimum four games after being placed on injured reserve Nov. 25, and he's made enough progress to resume on-field work. The Chargers aren't likely to hold a full slate of practices this week in advance of Thursday's game in Denver, so the veteran tight end may not be able to get in sufficient reps to prove he's ready to rejoin the lineup. When Hurst does get activated, his playing time is likely to hinge on the status of top tight end Will Dissly (shoulder), who sat out Sunday's loss to the Buccaneers and is trending toward missing a second straight game.