The Chargers’ bid to salvage their season may unfold without the assistance of safety Derwin James.

James has not played since Week 3 because of a hamstring injury and it may be quite a while before he’s able to make it back into the lineup. Head coach Jim Harbaugh said at a Wednesday press conference that James has suffered a setback in his recovery and that he could be placed on injured reserve as a result.

If that happens before Sunday’s game against the Vikings, James will not be able to play until Week 12 at the earliest. The Chargers face the Texans, Ravens and Jets after their game against Minnesota.

James had 21 tackles and a pass defensed in the first three weeks of the regular season.