Latest Justin Herbert Injury Update Leaves Chargers in Terrible Position for Week 3

In last week’s win over the Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers starting quarterback Justin Herbert suffered a leg injury thanks to a fall after a tackle between two Panthers defenders.

At the time the leg injury didn’t look serious, despite Herbert limping as he closed the game for the Chargers.

The star quarterback returned to the practice field on Thursday, but his right ankle was heavily taped, meaning he hurt his ankle. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network said Herbert wasn’t spotted doing drills at practice.

On Friday, Herbert spoke to reporters about his injury and status for this week’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers and it’s not good.

Chargers News: Justin Herbert Dealing With High Ankle Sprain

According to ESPN’s Kris Rhim, Herbert said he has a high ankle sprain, and it’s “yet to be decided” whether he’ll play on Sunday. The veteran quarterback added that the pain is “not great.”

If you are a Chargers fan or head coach Jim Harbaugh, this is the last piece of news you want to hear heading into Sunday’s game. However, Harbaugh was likely prepared for this situation as he was asked about Herbert’s status earlier this week.

Harbaugh told reporters that backup QB Easton Stick would start if Herbert can’t go. LA fans don’t want to see Stick touch the field as he struggled mightily in the preseason to the point where they wondered if he would make the 53-man roster.

Without Herbert on the field, the Chargers’ passing game takes a huge step back, and there will be a higher emphasis on the running game with J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. 

Los Angeles is a 2.5-point road underdog on DraftKings Sportsbook against the Steelers. The line could change by the time we reach kickoff on Sunday afternoon.

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