Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (10) struggles to get up after being hit during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert revealed Friday that he’s been diagnosed with a high right ankle sprain, leaving his status uncertain for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Herbert described the pain as significant and was seen walking with a limp after addressing the media.
“Thankfully, it’s only Friday,” Herbert said. “It is what it is. It’s all about getting treatment and making sure that it’s at its best and doing everything I can to limit the swelling, limit the pain and just keep things moving forward.”
Chargers List Herbert as Questionable for Sunday
The Chargers have officially listed Herbert as questionable for Sunday’s matchup. He didn’t practice on Wednesday or Friday but had limited participation on Thursday. Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh explained that Herbert missing Friday’s practice wasn’t a sign of a setback but rather part of the team’s medical plan.
“Every day, it’s been getting better,” Herbert said. “It’s just getting it to a point where you feel comfortable going out there and being able to move.”
Backup Plan Unclear
On Wednesday, Harbaugh mentioned that Easton Stick would start if Herbert couldn’t go, but on Friday, he refrained from confirming any decisions.
“Until I really know exactly what Justin’s status is, I’m not going to really reveal any of what the contingencies are,” he said.
Injury History and Recovery
Herbert’s injury occurred during the third quarter of last Sunday’s 26-3 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Linebacker DJ Johnson pulled him down as he tried to scramble while defensive end Jayden Peevy hit him simultaneously. Johnson trapped his lower body, leading to the ankle injury. Despite the injury, Herbert didn’t miss a snap and later walked with a noticeable limp.
This is the second injury Herbert has dealt with this season. Earlier in training camp, he spent two weeks in a walking boot due to a plantar fascia injury in his right foot. Herbert noted that he has fully overcome that issue but will need to monitor it throughout the season.
Herbert has been one of the most reliable quarterbacks since entering the league, starting 62 consecutive games before a fracture to his right index finger ended his 2023 season. Backup Easton Stick went winless in the four games Herbert missed.
“Injuries are unfortunately a part of the game, and you have to do everything you can to limit those,” Herbert said. “…Complaining and worrying about it isn’t going to help very much.”
This report used information from ESPN.
