Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is dealing with an ankle injury that has cast doubt on his availability for the team’s Week 3 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert sustained the injury during the first quarter of the Chargers’ 26-3 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
Despite the setback, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh provided an optimistic update on Wednesday, stating that Herbert is “feeling much better” and expressing hope that the quarterback won’t miss any time. “Crystal ball? Expect him to get better every day,” Harbaugh said. “I was in a meeting with him. He said he was feeling much better and good today.”
However, Herbert did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, leaving his status uncertain. Harbaugh acknowledged that if Herbert is unable to play, backup quarterback Easton Stick would step in as the starter. “Right now, it’s Easton,” Harbaugh noted. “But we are going to be way over the legal limit of ‘what ifs’ if this or if that”, told AP News.
Herbert injured his right ankle early in the game and was seen walking into the medical tent with team trainers, though he did not miss any game action. After the game, he was spotted limping, raising concerns about his health. Harbaugh confirmed on Monday that X-rays came back negative, offering some relief to fans and the team.
This ankle injury is the second issue Herbert has faced with his right foot this season. During training camp, he wore a walking boot for two weeks after being diagnosed with plantar fascia, a condition the Chargers are closely monitoring throughout the season.
With Herbert’s availability still uncertain, the Chargers will be carefully evaluating his recovery as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Steelers.